The Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening border security, enhancing veterans’ welfare and reviewing key defence policy frameworks to bolster Nigeria’s national security architecture.
According to a statement issued in Abuja by the Deputy Director of Information and Public Relations in the ministry, Enderline Chukwu, the Minister gave the assurance while receiving members of the Alumni Association of the National Defence College (AANDEC) during a courtesy visit to the Ministry’s headquarters at Ship House on Monday, 23 February 2026.
Musa noted that Nigeria’s security environment remains dynamic and complex, requiring continuous review and upgrading of existing frameworks, including the National Defence Policy and its Implementation Guidelines (2019).
“Life is dynamic and our security challenges are fluid. It is important that our Armed Forces and institutional frameworks adapt accordingly,” he said.
He stressed that policy documents must evolve in response to emerging threats and changing global realities.
The Minister disclosed that the Ministry would liaise with the Permanent Secretary and other strategic partners to initiate structured engagements aimed at reviewing critical defence policies and related documents requiring updates.
On border security, Musa described it as a critical pillar of Nigeria’s national security strategy, underscoring the urgency of strengthening surveillance and control mechanisms across the country’s borders.
“It is important that we know who is coming in, who is going out, and what is coming into our country,” he said. “Improved border control will significantly curb transnational crimes and insecurity.”
Musa also emphasised the need to prioritise the welfare of military veterans, noting that those who have served the nation deserve comprehensive post-service support, including healthcare and welfare benefits.
“Our veterans have sacrificed greatly for this country. We must ensure they enjoy dignity, adequate care and improved living standards after service,” he stated.
He assured stakeholders that the Ministry is reviewing relevant frameworks to strengthen veterans’ welfare systems and adopt best practices that will guarantee sustainable support for retired personnel.
Earlier, the President of AANDEC, Ndidi Patrick Agholor (rtd), expressed appreciation to the Minister for the warm reception and reaffirmed the Association’s readiness to collaborate with the Ministry.
“AANDEC possesses the professional expertise and capacity to support the effective implementation of the National Defence Policy,” Agholor said. “We remain committed to strengthening Nigeria’s defence architecture through research, advisory services and strategic engagements.”
He appealed for the Ministry’s support in enhancing AANDEC’s operational capacity, including assistance with mobility, office equipment, conference facilities, the forthcoming National Security Summit, and the development of a permanent facility for the Association.
“A stronger institutional collaboration between AANDEC and the Ministry will contribute meaningfully to addressing Nigeria’s evolving security challenges,” he added.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr Richard Pheelangwa, and directors of the Ministry were also present at the meeting.
