Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, said nation-building required integrity, accountability, and commitment from all citizens, explaining that sustainable development and national stability can only be achieved through collective responsibility.
Musa stated that every citizen had a role to play in upholding ethical standards, supporting government initiatives, and promoting unity across the country.
The minister spoke during the Combined Convocation Ceremony of the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), Kaduna, held on Saturday, March 28.
Musa’s views were contained in a statement issued by Director of Public Relations and Information of the Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore EhimenEjodame.
Represented by Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Defence, Mr Richard Pheelangwah, Musa charged the graduating students to embrace patriotism, innovation, and excellence as they contribute meaningfully to national development.
He stated that their academic success came with the responsibility to contribute to the country’s growth and security.
Highlighting the scale of the ceremony, the minister disclosed that 3,003 students were awarded diplomas, degrees, and certificates, describing the milestone as remarkable, particularly as AFIT only attained degree-awarding status in the 2018/2019 academic session.
He emphasised that the graduates were not merely leaving with academic qualifications but also as custodians of national responsibility, equipped with the knowledge and skills to address contemporary challenges.
He urged them to apply their expertise with strong moral values, stressing that Nigeria’s progress depends on individuals committed to integrity and accountability.
Musa underscored the importance of AFIT as a centre of excellence in technological education and professional training, highlighting its role in producing skilled manpower essential for advancing science, technology, and innovation.
However, former Speaker of Plateau State House of Assembly, Hon. Dewan Gabriel, criticised recent comments made by Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Olufemi Oluyede, describing them as “an insult to every Nigerian family that has lost a loved one to terrorism”.
Oluyede had likened terrorists to the Biblical “prodigal son,” suggesting that they deserve rehabilitation.
The remarks sparked outrage among terrorism victims, communities, and security stakeholders.
In a strongly-worded statement, Gabriel said the comments were unacceptable at a time when Nigerians continued to face killings, displacement, and widespread insecurity.
“Such a remark trivialises the bloodshed and pain inflicted on innocent citizens and sends a dangerous signal that the lives of victims matter less than the comfort of perpetrators,” he said.
Gabriel stated that terrorists were not “misunderstood individuals” but violent actors who had waged war against the Nigerian state.
He insisted that any approach that appeared to prioritise sympathy over justice amounted to a betrayal of public trust.
The former speaker added that Oluyede’s statement undermined national morale and disrespected the sacrifices of security personnel who risked and often lost their lives in the fight against terrorism.
He stated, “Leadership at that level demands discipline, sensitivity, and unwavering commitment to justice.
“When a high ranking officer makes comments that weaken the fight against terrorism, it raises serious questions about judgment and fitness for office.”
In another development, Oluyode emphasised that maintaining physical, mental, and emotional fitness was essential for operational effectiveness.
“To defeat insurgency, other emerging security threats, we must keep physically, mentally, and emotionally fit,” he stated.
Oluyode highlighted that the country’s complex security environment demanded personnel who were not only combat-ready but also resilient, disciplined, and capable of addressing security challenges with focus and determination.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Armed Forces Inter-Service Archery Competition 2026, Oluyede said given the security challenges facing the country, the timing of the competition was both apt and crucial for addressing threats through non-kinetic means.
Represented by Director of Defence Administration, Rear Admiral SemiuAdekpegba, the CDS stated, “It is imperative that the men and women of our Armed Forces remain fit physically, mentally, and emotionally to cope with the enormous demands and responsibilities of our national values and aspirations.
“Events of this nature are organised to enhance marksmanship and instilvalues of integrity, precision, intensity, innovation, and excellence, while also improving service delivery.
“Effective service can only be assured when personnel are fit. Over the past few days, we have witnessed not only the exceptional talents and precision of our competitors but also the camaraderie and sportsmanship that reflect the core values upheld by our armed forces.”
He stressed, “Archery extends beyond a mere sport; it embodies discipline, concentration, perseverance, and fortitude. Each archer engages not only in targeting the mark but also in embodying fundamental military values: accuracy, resolve, and an unwavering quest for improvement. These principles resonate both in athletics and in our daily duties as protectors of the nation.”
Linus Aleke and Yemi Kosoko
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