President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has tasked the latest set of officers graduating from the Armed Forces Command and Staff College (AFCSC) in Jaji to take a leading role in Nigeria's ongoing security overhaul. The President delivered this charge as the nation faces multifaceted threats, including terrorism, cyber attacks, maritime insecurity, and conflicts fueled by climate change.
A Call to Duty at a Critical Juncture
Speaking at the Joint Graduation Ceremony for Senior Course 47 and Junior Course 100, President Tinubu described the event as a powerful testament to the discipline, patriotism, and service that characterize the Nigerian military. The ceremony was held at the Major General Bulama Biu Parade Ground within the Jaji Military Cantonment in Kaduna State.
Represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, the President congratulated the graduates. He highlighted that their success is the result of years of sacrifice, resilience, and unwavering devotion to national duty. The presidential delegation included notable figures such as former Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom and Senator Jack Gyado.
Tinubu emphasized that today's security landscape demands more than raw courage on the battlefield. He stated that overcoming contemporary challenges requires strategic thinking, seamless inter-agency cooperation, and a steadfast commitment to democratic principles and the rule of law.
Confronting Evolving Threats
The President pointed out that the officers are graduating during a period of significant transformation in both global and regional security. He noted that threats are continuously evolving in their scope and complexity.
Traditional and non-traditional dangers, ranging from insurgency and terrorism to cyber warfare and climate-induced disputes, present a persistent challenge to national stability. Tinubu assured the gathering that his administration is dedicated to strengthening the country's security framework, improving the welfare of military personnel, and fostering better synergy among security, intelligence, and civilian institutions.
He commended the AFCSC for its consistent excellence in producing officers who have provided exemplary leadership within Nigeria and on international peacekeeping missions for bodies like ECOWAS, the African Union, and the United Nations.
Modernization, Unity, and the Path Forward
Reaffirming his government's resolve, President Tinubu pledged to deepen the modernization of the Armed Forces, enhance joint operational capabilities, and raise the living standards of officers and their families. He mentioned that ongoing reforms focus on upgrading training infrastructure, boosting operational capacity, and accelerating welfare packages for personnel.
The President issued a strong caution against misinformation, ethnic tensions, and divisive narratives, which he said threaten military cohesion. He urged the graduates to counter these forces through professionalism, impartiality, and loyalty to the constitution. He reminded them that they represent Nigeria's rich diversity, united by a common oath to defend the nation's sovereignty.
Tinubu encouraged the new graduates to view their accomplishment as a starting point, not a finale. He urged them to apply the leadership qualities and analytical skills honed at Jaji to serve Nigeria and the world at large.
"Be bold in leadership, innovative in strategy, and humble in service," the President advised. "Uphold integrity and discipline at all times. Continue to mentor those coming behind you, and never lose sight of the sacred trust the nation has placed in you."
