By Muhammad Mamman
President Bola Tinubu has vowed to ramp up the local production of arms and ammunition, heralding a bold new era for Nigeria’s security framework. Speaking at the National Defence College’s Course 33 graduation ceremony in Abuja on Friday, Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, underscored that bolstering indigenous manufacturing is pivotal to fortifying national security and fostering development. This strategic shift aims to slash reliance on foreign suppliers, sharpening Nigeria’s edge in combating insecurity.
Addressing the graduates—drawn from the Nigerian Army, Navy, Police Force, and allied institutions across Nigeria and beyond—Tinubu lauded the course theme, Strengthening Institutions for National Security and Development in Nigeria. He emphasised that robust institutions are the bedrock of a thriving society, upholding the rule of law, safeguarding citizens’ rights, and ensuring accountability. “This administration has made institutional strength a top priority,” he declared. “These frameworks manage conflict, counter threats, and drive sound governance for the common good.”
Tinubu hailed the National Defence College as a beacon of his government’s commitment to building human capital critical to Nigeria’s survival. He singled out the College’s research excellence, spotlighting the Presidential Treaties on Harnessing Indigenous Manufacturing for Enhanced National Security and Development: Strategic Options for Nigeria by 2040. “I’ve instructed stakeholders to scrutinise your recommendations,” he said. “Strengthening local manufacturing is non-negotiable for our nation’s security and progress.”
The President also reaffirmed his commitment to completing the College’s permanent site in Piwoyi. “While progress has been made, more must be done,” he admitted, pledging to transform the College into a world-class Defence Postgraduate University. “I’ve directed the Commandant to collaborate with the Minister of Defence to upgrade facilities and explore further enhancements,” he assured.
Tinubu highlighted his administration’s broader vision, noting a revitalised economy with a stock market surge of over 48% year-on-year—the strongest in nearly three decades. “This reflects investor confidence in our reforms,” he said. “Yet, we must tackle inflation and food insecurity to ensure prosperity reaches every Nigerian.”
Urging the Course 33 graduates to join his mission for a “renewed hope” Nigeria, Tinubu acknowledged the volatile global landscape—from economic headwinds to cyber threats and regional political instability. “You’ve been trained to lead with vision and courage in these complex times,” he said, commending the College’s leadership for preparing graduates to serve Nigeria and allied nations.
Rear Admiral J.O. Okosu, the College Commandant, praised Tinubu’s unwavering support, while Major General Kevin Ukandu, Deputy Commandant, highlighted the graduates’ training in defence management, strategy, and geopolitics to tackle challenges like banditry and oil theft. With this bold agenda, Tinubu is steering Nigeria toward a future of self-reliance and resilience.
