The Honourable Minister of Defence, Christopher Gwabin Musa, has called on Nigerian students to take an active role in safeguarding the nation’s security, stressing that maintaining peace and unity is a shared responsibility.
The Minister made the appeal while addressing students from Veritas University during an educational visit to the Federal Ministry of Defence in Abuja.
Speaking to the students, Gen. Musa emphasized the importance of vigilance and civic responsibility among young Nigerians. He urged them to remain observant and report suspicious activities within their communities, noting that the fight against insecurity cannot be left to government alone.
“Students, as youths and future leaders, have a vital role to play in fighting insecurity. The nation’s unity is a collective responsibility,” he said.
During an interactive session, the Minister addressed questions on technological development, food security, and Nigeria’s defence partnerships. He revealed that the Ministry is strengthening collaboration with key government institutions to bridge technological gaps and boost innovation in the defence sector.
On local defence production, Gen. Musa highlighted ongoing efforts to integrate skilled Nigerians into the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria to support the production of military equipment, including drones. According to him, domestic production remains the most sustainable solution to equipment shortages, especially amid global procurement challenges linked to the Iran crisis.
He also encouraged students to avoid cybercrime and instead channel their creativity into productive ventures that contribute to national development. The Minister further advocated for broader access to military training, describing it as a tool for building discipline, resilience, and a balanced worldview.
On international cooperation, Gen. Musa noted that Nigeria is deepening defence ties with Turkey, drawing lessons from its decades-long experience in counter-terrorism operations.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Richard Pheelangwah, welcomed the students and explained that the visit was aimed at providing practical insights into Nigeria’s defence structure and career opportunities in strategic and security-related fields.
The student delegation described the visit as insightful, noting that it enhanced their understanding of the Ministry’s role in promoting national stability and development.
Senior officials and directors of the Ministry were also present at the event.
