Abuja: President Bola Tinubu has insisted on strengthening indigenous manufacturing of military hardware, emphasizing its critical role in enhancing Nigeria’s security and development. He applauded the culture of excellence in research at the National Defence College, highlighting the Presidential Treaties on Harnessing Indigenous Manufacturing for Enhanced National Security and Development: Strategic Options for Nigeria by 2040 as a testament to the strength of this tradition in the country.
According to Voice of Nigeria, the President, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, spoke at the graduation ceremony of Course 33 of the National Defence College in Abuja. He described the College as a vivid representation of his administration’s commitment to building human capital in areas critical to national survival. President Tinubu directed relevant stakeholders to study the College’s recommendations and strategies, underscoring the indispensability of indigenous manufacturing to the nation’s security and development.
The Nigerian leader expressed satisfaction with the theme for the College’s Course 33, ‘Strengthening Institutions for National Security and Development in Nigeria,’ noting that strong and resilient institutions are the foundation of any successful society. President Tinubu highlighted his administration’s prioritization of strong institutions, which uphold the rule of law, safeguard citizens’ rights, and promote accountability. He emphasized that these institutions are essential for managing conflict, countering threats, and ensuring sound governance and effective planning.
President Tinubu also reiterated his administration’s commitment to repositioning the nation’s economy for growth and shared prosperity. He noted the renewed confidence in Nigeria’s economy, as evidenced by the nation’s rising business outlook and stock market growth. However, he acknowledged the ongoing challenges of inflation and food insecurity, stressing the need to ensure that economic growth translates into real prosperity for all Nigerians.
The President restated his administration’s resolve to complete construction at the permanent site of the National Defence College in Piwoyi, recognizing its importance to the College. He urged the Course 33 graduates to contribute to delivering the administration’s renewed hope to Nigerians and called for their partnership in achieving the vision of a new Nigeria.
He commended the Commandant, the management team, and the faculty of the College for preparing the Course 33 graduates, who were drawn from various branches of the Nigerian military and other institutions within and outside Nigeria. Rear Admiral James Okosu, Commandant of the National Defence College, expressed confidence in the graduates’ abilities to address several pertinent security challenges through their training.