President Bola Tinubu has pledged to accelerate the local production of arms and ammunition as part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture and reduce dependence on foreign suppliers.
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the graduation ceremony of Course 33 of the National Defence College (NDC) in Abuja, Tinubu said indigenous military production was vital to tackling insecurity and ensuring sustainable development.
“The knowledge you have acquired here must be deployed to fortify Nigeria’s institutions and enhance our collective security. Strong institutions uphold the rule of law, safeguard citizens’ rights, and are the framework for countering threats and instability,” he stated.
The president commended the NDC’s research excellence, particularly its recommendations on harnessing indigenous manufacturing for national security by 2040. He directed stakeholders to study the proposals, stressing that self-reliance in military hardware was “indispensable” to Nigeria’s future.
Tinubu also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to completing the permanent site of the Defence College at Piwoyi, with a long-term vision of transforming it into a Defence Postgraduate University.
While highlighting reforms that have boosted investor confidence and grown Nigeria’s stock market by over 48 percent in the past year, the president admitted that tackling inflation and food insecurity remains a priority.
Addressing the Course 33 graduands drawn from Nigeria and allied nations, Tinubu urged them to apply their training to the volatile global landscape shaped by economic crises, technological disruptions, and rising security challenges.
“You have been equipped to lead with vision and courage,” he charged, while applauding the NDC Commandant, faculty, and management team for their role in grooming future leaders for the Armed Forces, security agencies, and partner nations.
The NDC Commandant, Rear Admiral J.O. Okosu, and Deputy Commandant, Major General Kevin Ukandu, assured that the graduates had been adequately trained in defense management, strategy, and geopolitics to address Nigeria’s pressing security concerns, including banditry and oil theft.