The Federal Ministry of Defence has inaugurated three strategic technical committees aimed at strengthening national security, enhancing military planning, and improving the welfare of veterans.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony held at Ship House in Abuja on Wednesday, the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), said the initiative underscores the Federal Government’s resolve to move beyond policy formulation to the effective implementation of defence and security strategies.
He noted that the committees would play a critical role in addressing key national priorities, stressing that Nigeria must adopt practical, result-driven approaches to tackle evolving security challenges.
The newly inaugurated committees include the Technical Committee on Integrated Border Security System, the Defence Sector Capital Requirements Plan Committee, and the Committee on Veterans Welfare and Institutional Reform.
According to the minister, the committees reflect a coordinated effort to improve operational readiness, strengthen institutional capacity, and ensure that retired military personnel receive the recognition and support they deserve.
On border security, Musa highlighted the need for a modern, intelligence-driven and technology-enabled framework to manage Nigeria’s vast and complex land and maritime boundaries. He tasked the committee to review existing systems, identify gaps, and propose integrated solutions that promote real-time information sharing and inter-agency collaboration.
Addressing defence funding and planning, the minister directed the Defence Sector Capital Requirements Plan Committee to develop a realistic and prioritised 5–10 year investment framework aligned with national security objectives. This, he said, would involve assessing current infrastructure, identifying capability gaps, and projecting future needs in response to emerging threats.
On veterans’ welfare, Musa emphasized the importance of preserving the dignity and well-being of former service personnel. He said the committee would focus on strengthening welfare systems, improving access to support services, and introducing a standardized national dress code for veterans to promote identity and national pride.
The minister urged committee members to carry out their assignments with professionalism, transparency, and accountability, adding that stakeholder engagement and value for money must guide their recommendations.
All three committees have been given one month to submit comprehensive reports, including clear implementation roadmaps.
In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Richard Pheelangwah, commended the minister’s leadership and reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to supporting the committees in delivering on their mandates.
He also called on members to approach their assignments with patriotism and a strong sense of national duty.
The ministry described the initiative as a significant step toward modernising Nigeria’s defence architecture, strengthening institutional coordination, and enhancing national resilience.
