President Bola Tinubu on Friday pledged to accelerate local production of arms and ammunition to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture.
Speaking in Abuja during the graduation ceremony of Course 33 of the National Defence College, the President, who was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, noted that boosting local capacity will reduce dependence on foreign suppliers, and also sharpen the nation’s fight against insecurity.
The Course 33 graduates are drawn from the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, Nigeria Police Force, and other institutions both within and outside Nigeria.
He expressed delight at the theme for the College’s Course 33, “Strengthening Institutions for National Security and Development in Nigeria,” pointing out that the foundation of every successful society was strong and resilient institutions.
Noting that his administration has since made strong institutions a national priority, Tinubu said, “They uphold the rule of law, safeguard citizens’ rights, promote accountability, and deliver essential services. In national security, they are the framework for managing conflict, countering threats, and building resilience against instability.
“In development, they ensure sound governance, effective planning, and the delivery of policies that serve the common good. This is why this administration has made institutional strengthening a national priority, and I trust that the knowledge you have acquired here will be deployed to fortify the institutions of Nigeria and of your respective nations.”
He described the College as a vivid representation of his administration’s commitment to building human capital in areas critical to our national survival.
Tinubu stressed that strengthening indigenous manufacturing of military hardware was crucial in enhancing Nigeria’s security and development.
He applauded the culture of excellence in research at the National Defence College (NDC), citing the Presidential Treaties on Harnessing Indigenous Manufacturing for Enhanced National Security and Development: Strategic Options for Nigeria by 2040, as an affirmation of the strength of such a tradition in the country.
“I must also commend the tradition of research excellence in this College. 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 stated.