Defence Minister Christopher Gwabin Musa has underscored the critical role of Nigeria’s universities in strengthening national security and building long-term strategic resilience.
Speaking at the combined convocation ceremony of Akwa Ibom State University in Ikot Akpaden, Mkpat Enin Local Government Area, the minister said the country’s higher education system remains pivotal to addressing emerging security challenges.
According to a statement issued by the ministry’s Chief Information Officer, Queeneth Iheoma-Hart, on Thursday, General Musa delivered the convocation lecture before graduands, academics and dignitaries, stressing that modern security threats require a knowledge-driven response.
He noted that the nature of global and domestic threats has evolved significantly, with terrorism, cyber warfare and other asymmetric risks redefining defence strategies in the 21st century.
“National defence today is not solely the preserve of the armed forces,” he said. “It requires a whole-of-nation approach in which our universities play a strategic role; producing skilled manpower, advancing research and innovation, and cultivating the values that underpin stability and cohesion.”
The defence minister called for deeper collaboration between the military, government institutions and academia to effectively tackle emerging threats. He emphasised the need for sustained investment in education and a deliberate alignment of academic programmes with national security priorities, particularly in areas such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and data systems.
General Musa further advocated structured partnerships between universities and defence institutions, noting that such collaboration is essential for building a modern, self-reliant and responsive national security architecture.
He also reminded stakeholders that safeguarding the nation is a shared responsibility that extends beyond the Armed Forces to all sectors of society, especially the education sector.
Addressing the graduating students, the minister urged them to embrace discipline, pursue innovation and demonstrate a strong sense of duty in contributing to Nigeria’s stability and development.
“You are the next generation of leaders and nation builders,” he said. “Your commitment to excellence, integrity and service will shape the future of our country.”
The convocation ceremony brought together government officials, members of the academic community and other stakeholders to celebrate the achievements of the graduating class while reflecting on the broader role of education in national development.
