MINISTRY OF DEFENCE TO STRENGTHEN BORDER SECURITY, VETERANS WELFARE AND POLICY REFORMS —MUSA

The Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (Rtd), has reiterated the determination of the Federal Government to enhance border security, advance the welfare of military veterans, and undertake a comprehensive review of defence policy frameworks as part of efforts to fortify Nigeria’s national security architecture. The Minister made this known on Monday during a courtesy visit by members of the Alumni Association of the National Defence College (AANDEC) at the Ministry’s headquarters in Shiphouse, Abuja.

Enderline Chukwu, Deputy Director Information and Public Relations, for the Director of Information and Public Relations, in a statement, quoted General Musa as emphasising that the country’s security landscape is constantly shifting and requires that existing documents, such as the National Defence Policy (2017) and its Implementation Guidelines (2019), be regularly updated to address emerging threats and global developments. According to General Musa, policy instruments must remain responsive to the fluid nature of security challenges. He stressed that it is imperative for the Armed Forces and supporting institutional structures to evolve in tandem with these changes. The Minister disclosed that the Ministry would engage with the Permanent Secretary and other strategic partners to facilitate structured dialogue aimed at reviewing and updating critical defence documents.

Addressing border security, General Musa described it as a fundamental component of the national security strategy. He underscored the need to strengthen surveillance systems and control measures to ensure comprehensive awareness of cross-border activities. He noted that knowing who enters and exits the country, as well as what is brought in, is essential to curbing transnational crimes and improving overall security. General Musa further emphasised the importance of prioritising the welfare of veterans, affirming that those who have served the nation deserve robust post-service support, particularly in healthcare and other benefits. He assured stakeholders that the Ministry is actively reviewing existing frameworks to enhance veterans’ welfare and is exploring best practices to ensure retired personnel enjoy dignity and improved quality of life.

Rear Admiral Ndidi Patrick Agholor (rtd), President of AANDEC, commended General Musa for the warm reception and acknowledged the association’s readiness to partner with the Ministry in implementing the National Defence Policy. Rear Admiral Agholor highlighted that AANDEC brings substantial professional expertise and capacity to support the Ministry through research, advisory services, and strategic initiatives. He called for the Ministry’s assistance in boosting the association’s operational capacity, particularly in areas such as mobility, office equipment, conference facilities, and the hosting of the upcoming National Security Summit. He also sought support for the development of a permanent facility for the association. Rear Admiral Agholor reaffirmed AANDEC’s commitment to collaborating with the Ministry in addressing Nigeria’s evolving security challenges, noting that deeper institutional cooperation would yield significant benefits.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr Richard Pheelangwa, along with directors of the Ministry, were present at the event.