The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening border security, improving the welfare of military veterans, and reviewing key defence policy frameworks to enhance Nigeria’s national security architecture.
The Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (Rtd), gave the assurance on Monday in Abuja while receiving members of the Alumni Association of the National Defence College (AANDEC) during a courtesy visit at the Ministry’s headquarters, Ship House.
In a statement issued by the Deputy Director, Information and Public Relations, Enderline Chukwu, the Minister emphasised that Nigeria’s security environment remains dynamic and complex, requiring continuous review and upgrading of existing defence policies.
He noted that documents such as the National Defence Policy (2017) and its Implementation Guidelines (2019) must evolve in response to emerging threats and changing global realities.
According to him, the Ministry will liaise with relevant authorities, including the Permanent Secretary and strategic partners, to initiate structured engagements aimed at reviewing critical defence policies and other related frameworks.
General Musa described border security as a critical pillar of Nigeria’s national security strategy, stressing the need to strengthen surveillance and control mechanisms across the country’s borders.
He said improved monitoring of movements in and out of Nigeria would help curb transnational crimes and enhance national safety.
The Minister also highlighted the importance of prioritising the welfare of military veterans, noting that retired personnel deserve adequate post-service support, including access to healthcare and welfare benefits.
He assured stakeholders that the Ministry is reviewing existing frameworks to strengthen veterans’ welfare systems and adopt best practices that will ensure dignity and improved living standards for retired personnel.
Earlier, the President of AANDEC, Rear Admiral Ndidi Patrick Agholor (Rtd), commended the Minister for the warm reception and reaffirmed the association’s readiness to collaborate with the Ministry in implementing the National Defence Policy.
He said the association possesses the professional expertise and capacity to support the Ministry through research, advisory services, and strategic engagements.
Rear Admiral Agholor also appealed for the Ministry’s support in enhancing AANDEC’s operational capacity, including assistance with mobility, office equipment, conference facilities, the conduct of the forthcoming National Security Summit, and the development of the association’s permanent facility.
He pledged AANDEC’s continued partnership with the Ministry in advancing national security objectives and strengthening Nigeria’s defence architecture.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr Richard Pheelangwa, and other directors were present at the event.
