Tinubu: Indigenous arms production key to Nigeria’s security

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reiterated his administration’s commitment to promoting indigenous manufacturing of military hardware as a key step toward improving Nigeria’s security and long-term development.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony of Course 33 of the National Defence College (NDC) in Abuja on Friday, President Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, applauded the college’s culture of research and innovation.

“I must commend the tradition of research excellence in this college,” he said.

“Your Presidential Treaties on Harnessing Indigenous Manufacturing for Enhanced National Security and Development: Strategic Options for Nigeria by 2040 is a clear demonstration of this strength. I have directed that relevant stakeholders study your recommendations and harvest the strategies you proposed, because strengthening indigenous manufacturing is indispensable to our nation’s security and development.”

The President emphasised the importance of building strong institutions, which he described as the foundation of democracy, security, and prosperity.

He noted that the theme of Course 33, “Strengthening Institutions for National Security and Development in Nigeria,” aligns with his administration’s priorities.

“In national security, institutions are the framework for managing conflict, countering threats, and building resilience against instability,” he said.

“In development, they ensure sound governance and the delivery of policies that serve the common good. Without strong institutions there can be no lasting democracy.”

Tinubu also highlighted progress in the Nigerian economy, citing improved investor confidence and a 48 percent year-on-year rise in the stock market—the strongest performance in nearly three decades.

He acknowledged, however, that challenges such as inflation and food insecurity must be addressed to ensure that growth translates into prosperity for all Nigerians.

The President reaffirmed his government’s commitment to completing the permanent site of the National Defence College in Piwoyi.

He said the facility, when fully equipped, should evolve into a Defence Postgraduate University, serving Nigeria and allied nations.

“I have therefore directed the Commandant to work closely with the Minister of Defence to develop a clear strategy to upgrade the facilities, while government explores further interventions to enhance the infrastructure,” Tinubu said.

Addressing the graduating officers and participants from allied nations, Tinubu urged them to apply their training in confronting today’s global and regional challenges, from cyber threats to unconstitutional changes of government.

“You have been trained to think and act strategically. You have been equipped to lead with vision and courage,” he told the graduands.

Earlier, the Commandant of the College, Rear Admiral J.O. Okusu, thanked the government for its continued support and expressed confidence in the abilities of the graduates.

The Deputy Commandant, Major General Kevin Ukandu, explained that the course provided knowledge in defence management, strategy, geopolitics, and high-level policy functions.

Graduates of Course 33 were drawn from the Nigerian Armed Forces, Police, Ministries, Departments and Agencies, as well as allied countries.

The ceremony was attended by top military chiefs and government officials, including the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle; Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa; Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede; Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla; and Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar.