The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, has said nation-building required integrity, accountability, and commitment from all citizens, noting that sustainable development and national stability could only be achieved through collective responsibility.
He stated that every citizen has a role to play in upholding ethical standards, supporting government initiatives, and promoting unity across the country.
The minister made this known during the Combined Convocation Ceremony of the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), Kaduna, held on Saturday, 28 March 2026, and was contained in a statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information of the Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame.
Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Mr Richard Pheelangwah, General Musa charged the graduating students to embrace patriotism, innovation, and excellence as they contribute meaningfully to national development.
He noted that their academic success comes 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 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.
General Musa also underscored the importance of AFIT as a centre of excellence in technological education and professional training, noting its role in producing skilled manpower essential for advancing science, technology, and innovation.
Meanwhile, a former speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Hon. Dewan Gabriel, has criticised the recent comments made by the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Olufemi Oluyede, describing them as “an insult to every Nigerian family that has lost a loved one to terrorism.”
The CDS had likened terrorists to the biblical “prodigal son,” suggesting that they deserved rehabilitation. The remarks have however have sparked outrage among 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 argued that terrorists were not “misunderstood individuals” but violent actors who have waged war against the Nigerian state, insisting that any approach that appeared to prioritise sympathy over justice amounted to a betrayal of public trust.
He added that the statement undermined national morale and disrespected the sacrifices of security personnel who risked and often lost their lives in the fight against terrorism.
“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,” he said.
In another development, Oluyode, has emphasised that maintaining physical, mental, and emotional fitness waas 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 nation’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 the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Armed Forces Inter-Service Archery Competition 2026, he noted that, given the security challenges facing the country, the timing of the competition was both apt and crucial for addressing some threats through non-kinetic means.
Represented by the Director of Defence Administration, Rear Admiral Semiu Adekpegba, the CDS said, “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 instil values 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.
“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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