Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Major General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), has said that sustainable national security goes beyond military operations and must include efforts to defeat ignorance, address hopelessness, and strengthen democratic values.
Speaking at the June 12 Special Edition of The Platform Nigeria on Friday, the minister emphasized that lasting peace and stability can only be achieved when citizens are empowered through education, opportunity, and effective governance.
Delivering a presentation titled “Securing Our Nation,” Musa paid tribute to the sacrifices of pro-democracy advocates whose struggles paved the way for Nigeria’s democratic journey.
According to him, while military capabilities such as ground operations, air power, and intelligence gathering remain vital, they are not sufficient on their own to guarantee long-term security.
“When we speak of national defence, the instinct is to focus on boots on the ground, air power, or intelligence gathering. But true and lasting security is anchored on one critical element: the defeat of ignorance and the conquest of hopelessness. No democracy can flourish where fear dominates daily life,” he said.
The minister noted that security remains a critical foundation for economic growth and national development, stressing that gains in governance and investment can only be sustained in a secure environment.
He highlighted achievements recorded by the Armed Forces of Nigeria, including the neutralisation of key terrorist leaders and the disruption of criminal networks across various theatres of operation.
However, Musa warned that emerging threats such as banditry, kidnapping, cybercrime, and transnational violent extremism continue to evolve and adapt. He said criminal groups increasingly exploit technology and social media platforms to spread misinformation, deepen social divisions, and undermine national stability.
The Defence Minister called for a comprehensive national approach that combines military action with education, economic empowerment, technological innovation, and citizen participation to effectively address the root causes of insecurity.
The 2026 edition of The Platform Nigeria was themed “Governance, Democracy and National Security.”
