President Bola Ahmed Tinubu made a commitment to Nigerians to deploy state power for their security during the graduation ceremony of Senior Course 45 of the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji, Kaduna. As the Commander-in-Chief, he charged himself to ensure the security of citizens’ lives and property in a just and democratic society. Tinubu emphasized the need for a new approach to address the unconventional nature of security threats faced by Nigeria and its neighbors in the Lake Chad Region. He urged the affected countries to rewrite their military doctrines and practices to combat “mobile and elusive irregular forces” that do not adhere to established rules of warfare.
The President stressed the importance of cooperation among African countries to tackle common security challenges. He commended the efforts of Nigeria, Cameroon, the Niger Republic, and Chad in bringing peace to the Lake Chad region, calling it an example to be emulated and improved upon. Tinubu outlined his National Security Objective, which focuses on ensuring security, justice, and democratic prosperity through state power.
He acknowledged the previous government’s efforts in enhancing the combat readiness of the Armed Forces and pledged to accelerate those reforms by providing necessary support to the military. Tinubu also highlighted Africa’s current geopolitical changes, resource competition, and violence and exploitation as major challenges. He called on the graduating officers to play a crucial role in defending the continent from these threats.
Addressing the non-Nigerian graduands, Tinubu emphasized that national security is achieved not only through strength but also through cooperation, justice, good governance, and mutual respect. He praised the college’s efforts in curricula improvement and facility upgrade, encouraging the graduates to stand brave and unwavering in their constitutional responsibilities as defenders of the nation.
Various prizes were awarded to participants who distinguished themselves during the ceremony. The President left the graduates with a charge to fulfill their duty to the nation, reminding them of the significant investment made in their training and the collective safety resting in their hands.
The event was attended by Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence Dr. Ibrahim Kana, all the Service Chiefs, and members of the Diplomatic Corps. The graduation ceremony celebrated the dedication and commitment of the graduating officers to their training and their mission to safeguard Nigeria’s security and prosperity.
