…Says leadership, excellence, and service are the Core of Nation building

The Vice-President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Kashim Shettima, GCON, represented by the Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Defence, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, mni, has commended the graduating cadets of the 71 Regular Course and Postgraduate Students of the Nigeria Defence Academy (NDA) for their dedication and readiness to serve the nation.

The Vice- President gave the commendation during the 34th Convocation Ceremony
of the 71 Regular Course and Postgraduate Students of the Nigeria Defence Academy (NDA)
held at NDA , Kaduna State.

In his speech, the Vice President commended the cadets for their perseverance, stating that: “Your commitment and discipline exemplify the qualities that Nigeria needs in these challenging times. As future leaders of our Armed Forces, you stand as symbols of hope, resilience, and courage.”

According to the him, the convocation marked a significant milestone for the 71 Regular Course Cadets and postgraduate students as they step into roles that will shape the future of Nigeria’s defence. He reaffirmed government’s commitment
to equipping the military with the necessary tools and knowledge to protect the nation.

On his part, the Honourable Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar who also double as the Chairman of the NDA Governing Council, was represented by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher G. Musa, OFR, emphasized the importance of continuous training and education in the military. “The NDA remains the cornerstone of Nigeria’s military excellence. We must continue to invest in the development of our Armed Forces to ensure the nation’s security and stability,” he said.

He charged the graduating cadets to uphold the values of integrity, service, and patriotism as they join the ranks of Nigeria’s military elite.

…Says Nigeria is committed to protecting the rights of victims of terrorism

The Honourable Minister of Defence H.E. Mohammed Abubakar Badaru CON, has advocated for victims of terrorism by calling on the international community’s collective responsibility to protect and support victims of terrorism.

This was contained in a statement signed by Henshaw Ogubike Director (Information and Public Relations)

The Minister made the call during the fifth Ministerial meeting of the group of friends of victims of terrorism at the United Nations Headquarters, New York.

Badaru stated that Nigeria is proud to have been involved in the 2023 8th Review of the United Nations Global Counter- Terrorism Strategy (GCTS) which emphasized dignity and respect for victims of terrorism, while recognizing their role in preventing and countering terrorism.

He urged for increased protection and assistance for survivors and their communities, promoting dialogue and tolerance through inclusive, community-led initiatives to foster social cohesion.

The Minister highlighted the role of education in providing employment and income opportunities, affording young people a sense of community, developing critical thinking skills as well as building resilience against recruitment and by extension, preventing terrorism. “We urge greater support of investment in the provision and restoration of qualitative, holistic and innovative educational opportunities for victims of terrorism,” he said.

He re-emphasized Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to protecting the rights of victims of terrorism and supporting their needs as well as condemned the targeting of schools by terrorist groups and the abduction of school children, thereby denying them the much needed education.

While commending the United Nations office of Counter-Terrorism led by Vladimir Voronkov for his pivotal role in promoting international solidarity in support of the victims, he said that the collective responsibility to the affected communities will contribute towards enhanced support for victims of terrorism.

The Honourable Minister of Defence H.E. Mohammed Abubakar Badaru CON, has reiterated Nigeria’s dedication to the Treaty of Pelindaba, saying that Africa as a nuclear weapon-free zone is a gift to ourselves and our unborn generation.

This was contained in a statement signed by Henshaw Ogubike Director (Information and Public Relations)

The Minister stated this during a high-level meeting of the Launching of Friends of Fissile Material Cut-Off Treaty hosted by Japan’s Prime Minister, Mr. Kishida at the United Nations General Assembly 79, in New York, USA.

Nigeria joined other countries of like minds at the meeting to Launch a campaign for a Treaty that prohibits the production of Fissile material for Nuclear weapons and other nuclear explosive devices by limiting the quantitative improvement of nuclear weapons.

The Minister stated that Nigeria and the entire African Continent shall remain committed to the Treaty of PELINDABA, declaring Africa as a Nuclear weapon free-zone.

According to the Minister, Nigeria is playing a leading advocacy role for nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation of nuclear weapons and said that Nigeria would continue to actively participate in initiatives to strengthen the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) regime and the proposed Fissile Material Cut-off Treaty (FMCT) aimed at prohibiting the production of fissile material for nuclear weapons and other explosive devices.

Badaru highlighted that strengthening NPT FMCT will enhance transparency and cooperation between nuclear and non-nuclear states that will enhance a peaceful nuclear energy.

While he called for support from the entire African continent to the Fissile Material cut off Treaty (FMCT) initiative, he appreciated all friends of FMCT and Civil Society organizations for their dedication and hard work towards the realization of this laudable enterprise.

He added that NPT remained the cornerstone on nuclear disarmament, while FMCT if adopted will strengthen nuclear Non Proliferation Treaty ( NPT). He urged all stakeholders to support this noble endeavour.

…calls on international community to renew efforts to stem the tide of small arms and light weapons proliferation within the sahel region…

The Honourable Minister of Defence, H.E. Mohammed Abubakar Badaru CON, mni has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to supporting the United Nations’ efforts in maintaining international peace and security.

Speaking at the Summit of the Future during the 79th United Nations General Assembly in New York, USA, Badaru emphasized Nigeria’s significant contributions to global peace and security since its first engagement in Congo in 1960.

He said that Nigeria has contributed to International Peace and Security in terms of troops, finance, logistics, and civilian experts to various African countries, including Guinea Bissau, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Mali, and Côte d’Ivoire. In addition Nigeria has
played a key role in regional security and stability in West Africa and the Sahel

The Minister therefore called on the United Nations Security Council to give just representation to Africa on a permanent basis at the UN Security Council, emphasizing its importance for conscientious global peace, inclusivity , security , deepening global peace and building trust.

Addressing emerging security threats, the Minister highlighted the need for comprehensive strategies to prevent and address emerging security threats by stopping of illegal financial flows which will help in preventing kidnapping , banditry and stemming illicit arms and light weapons flow.

“We urge the international community to renew efforts to address these security challenges,” Badaru said.

The Honourable Minister of Defence H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar CON, mni has urged graduates of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Air War Course 10/2024 to employ innovative and proactive methods in combating complex security threats.

Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana mni at the graduation ceremony held at the Air Force War College (AFWC), Markurdi, the Minister emphasized the critical role of operational-level military leadership in addressing the threats posed by violent non-state actors and asymmetric warfare.

Badaru underscored the significance of effective military leadership in the various theatres of operations across the country and expressed confidence in the graduands’ ability to uphold the high standards of the Nigerian military and serve as ambassadors of professionalism.

He acknowledged the NAF’s significant contributions to internal security and international missions, including airlift and humanitarian support and assured that the Federal Government, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership, remains committed to providing the NAF with necessary resources to tackle security challenges.

The graduation ceremony marked a significant milestone in the NAF’s efforts to build a formidable force equipped to safeguard Nigeria’s territorial integrity.

The Permanent Secretary Ministry of Defence, Dr Ibrahim Abubakar kana has inaugurated the National Planning Committee (NPC) to commence preparation towards marking the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Celebrations (AFRDC).

This was made available in a statement signed by Henshaw Ogubike Director Information and Public relations.

Dr Kana while inaugurating the committee said that the Federal Government remains grateful to this category of Nigerians who laid their lives to guarantee the corporate existence of this country.

He therefore charged members to come up with laudable initiatives that will surpass the patriotism displayed by our fallen heroes.

The Permanent Secretary who represented the Honourable minister said “they have given their lives for the peace and security of our dear nation and are therefore worthy of being celebrated as a mark of appreciation”

Armed Forces Remembrance Day Celebrations is an annual event marked on the 15th of January to commemorate the nation’s departed compatriots as well as to honour our living veterans.

In addition “the Armed Forces Remembrance Day is an opportunity for us to acknowledge not only the Armed Forces but also all security agencies who contribute to the safety and sovereignty of our nation. We must ensure that this event honours their work and inspires future generations to continue this noble service”, Dr Kana concluded.

The highlights of the events will include a ministerial briefing, the Nigerian Legion Humanitarian Day, the Emblem Appeal Launch by the President, Juma’at Prayer, an Interdenominational church service and the wreath laying ceremony which will take place on 15th January 2025.

The Committee is drawn from various Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies.

In a major victory for security in Northwest Nigeria, the Nigerian military has successfully neutralized one of the most dangerous bandit kingpins, Halilu Buzu Sububu, marking a significant achievement in the ongoing fight against banditry in the region.
This was contained in a statement signed by a Public Affairs Analyst Malam Idris Nasir

This success comes shortly after the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle MON, relocated the Command and Control Centre to Sokoto under the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR.

The move is part of President Tinubu’s broader strategy to restore peace and stability in the Northwest. Dr. Matawalle, alongside the service chiefs, has been working tirelessly to ensure that the president’s commitment to securing the region is fulfilled. The elimination of Halilu Sububu represents a major breakthrough in this mission.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is fulfilling his promise to the people of the Northwest. The elimination of this notorious bandit kingpin is a proof that we are making significant progress,” Dr. Matawalle stated.

The Minister expressed his gratitude to the Nigerian Army and all security agencies involved in the operation, noting that their determination and dedication are key to the ongoing success. He further assured that the fight to rid the region of banditry is far from over, but the government remains resolute.

“We will not rest until every corner of the Northwest is free from the threat of banditry. The military, under the directive of President Tinubu, is now on a fight-to-finish mission, and we will continue to intensify our operations,” Dr. Matawalle said.

The success of the military operations is being widely celebrated by citizens of zone especially Zamfara, Katsina and Sokoto states. This has brought a sense of relief to communities that have long suffered under the threat of banditry. Farmers, traders, and businesspeople, who have been among the worst hit, have expressed their appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, Dr. Matawalle, and the Nigerian military for their efforts.

“The joy and relief in these communities are palpable. This victory is a turning point, and it sends a strong message to the likes of Bello Turji and those who seek to destabilize our region – they will be brought to justice,” Dr. Matawalle added.

The Nigerian military remains committed to continuing operations in the region until all bandit leaders and their groups are neutralized, ensuring lasting peace and security for the people of the Northwest.