The Honourable Minister of Defence, Federal Republic of Nigeria, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd), has examined the evolving security landscape, emerging risks, and the Ministry of Defence’s (MOD) strategic responses to contemporary security challenges.
The Minister delivered a lecture titled “Ministry of Defence Approach to Management of Contemporary Security Challenges in Nigeria” to participants of Army War College Nigeria (AWCN) Course 10/2026 at the College Lecture Hall in Abuja.
Providing a brief historical overview of the Ministry of Defence, General Musa highlighted its statutory roles in defence management and coordination of the Armed Forces. He emphasised the Ministry’s responsibility in policy formulation, strategic guidance, and resource allocation to ensure the effective protection of Nigeria’s territorial integrity and national interests.
The lecture also underscored ongoing reforms and interventions aimed at strengthening defence institutions, including the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), the Defence Management Bureau, and the Defence Space Administration, among others, to enhance national security and deter external aggression.
During the interactive session, General Musa, a recipient of the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) for his operational leadership as Theatre Commander of Operation HADIN KAI, shared valuable operational insights with participants. He also highlighted key interventions and ongoing military hardware procurement initiatives designed to reposition the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, and Nigerian Air Force for improved operational effectiveness.
In his remarks, the Commandant AWCN, Major General Umar Mohammed Alkali, expressed appreciation to the Honourable Minister for honouring the College despite his demanding schedule. He noted that the engagement reflects the College’s deliberate effort to continually refine and expand its curriculum in response to evolving local and global security threats.
According to the College Public Relations Officer, Major Cornelius Gutus, the lecture formed part of the College’s sustained effort to expose participants to seasoned policymakers and strategic leaders. He noted that AWCN hosted the Honourable Minister on 24 February 2026 in line with this objective.
The lecture concluded with the presentation of souvenirs and a group photograph.
