The Minister of Defence, retired Gen. Christopher Musa, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to building a capable, professional and resilient Armed Forces to protect Nigeria’s sovereignty and support national development.
Musa spoke on Monday at the opening of the National Symposium/Lecture Series held to mark the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day in Abuja.
He said the Ministry of Defence is prioritising troop welfare, improved training, doctrinal updates and the expansion of indigenous defence production to strengthen Nigeria’s long-term security capacity.
According to him, recent policy and legislative reforms are reviving local defence industries, encouraging private sector participation, creating jobs and reducing reliance on foreign suppliers. He added that Nigeria is also leveraging the expertise of professionals at home and in the diaspora to boost defence innovation and capacity building.
Musa noted that locally manufactured defence platforms now reflect the growing strength of Nigeria’s defence industrial base and its contribution to regional security and economic growth.
On military operations, the minister said enhanced special forces training and stronger cooperation with regional and international partners have improved intelligence sharing and operational effectiveness against transnational threats. He added that sustained offensives across different theatres have recorded successes, while improved naval operations have reduced maritime crime and protected critical national assets.
He stressed that security remains a shared responsibility, urging communities, traditional rulers, religious leaders and local governments to support efforts to disrupt criminal networks.
Musa also called on participants at the symposium to develop practical recommendations to further strengthen Nigeria’s defence architecture and national unity.
He commended the Chief of Defence Staff, Service Chiefs and Armed Forces personnel for their resilience and dedication, assuring Nigerians of the military’s resolve to defeat threats to the state.
“Nigeria is a great nation. United and resilient, we will overcome our challenges and secure a prosperous future,” he said.
The minister paid tribute to fallen heroes and praised serving personnel for their courage. He also recognised the sacrifices of families of deceased personnel, especially widows, describing their resilience as vital to Nigeria’s national identity.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Mr Richard Pheelangwa, said the symposium serves as a reminder that national strength lies not only in weapons, but in sacrifice, shared values and commitment to service. He added that leadership, clear vision and unity of purpose define the resilience of any defence system.
