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 emphasized that this duty requires unwavering discipline and patriotism as the nation faces multifaceted threats.
A Call to Action at a Critical Juncture
The president's charge was delivered on 20 December 2025 at the Joint Graduation Ceremony for Senior Course 47 and Junior Course 100. The event 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, President Tinubu served as the Special Guest of Honour. He framed the ceremony as a powerful testament to the core values of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
He congratulated the graduating officers, stating that their success is a product of years of sacrifice, resilience, and devotion to the nation. The presidential delegation included notable figures such as former Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom, Senator Jack Gyado, and Professor Iorwuese Hagher.
Confronting Evolving Security Challenges
President Tinubu outlined the complex security landscape that the new officers must navigate. He stated that modern threats extend beyond conventional battlefield courage.
"Your completion of these courses coincides with a period of profound transformation in the global and regional security environment," the president noted.
He detailed a range of pressing concerns that demand strategic expertise:
- Terrorism and insurgency
- Cyber warfare operations
- Maritime insecurity
- Conflicts exacerbated by climate change
To counter these, Tinubu stressed the necessity for strategic thinking, inter-agency cooperation, and strict adherence to democratic principles and the rule of law.
Administration's Commitment and a Charge to Graduates
The president reassured the armed forces of his administration's dedication to strengthening national security. He highlighted ongoing efforts to improve the welfare of personnel and enhance synergy between security, intelligence, and civilian institutions.
He also commended the AFCSC for its sustained excellence in producing leaders for both domestic assignments and international peacekeeping missions with bodies like ECOWAS, the AU, and the UN.
Directly addressing the graduates, Tinubu urged them to view their achievement as a starting point. He encouraged them to apply the leadership and analytical skills honed at Jaji to their service for Nigeria and the world.
"Be bold in leadership, innovative in strategy and humble in service," he 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."
