The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening border security, improving veterans’ welfare and reviewing key defence policy documents to reposition Nigeria’s security architecture in response to emerging threats.
The Minister of Defence, retired Gen. Christopher Musa, made this known while receiving members of the Alumni Association of the National Defence College (AANDEC) in Abuja.
Musa noted that Nigeria’s security landscape remains fluid and increasingly complex, making periodic reviews of existing defence frameworks necessary.
According to him, foundational documents such as the National Defence Policy (2017) and its Implementation Guidelines (2019) require updates to reflect evolving domestic and global security realities.
“Life is dynamic and our security challenges are not static. Our Armed Forces and institutional frameworks must continuously adapt to stay ahead of emerging threats,” he said.
The minister disclosed that the ministry would engage relevant authorities, including the Permanent Secretary and other strategic stakeholders, to initiate structured consultations aimed at reviewing critical defence policies and related instruments.
On border management, Musa described effective control of Nigeria’s borders as central to national security. He stressed the need for improved surveillance systems and stronger inter-agency coordination to monitor movements across the country’s borders.
“It is important that we know who is coming in, who is going out and what is entering our country. Strengthening border control will significantly curb transnational crimes and other forms of insecurity,” he said.
Musa also underscored the importance of prioritising the welfare of retired military personnel, stating that veterans who served the nation meritoriously deserve sustained post-service support. He said the ministry was reviewing existing frameworks to enhance healthcare access, welfare benefits and other support systems for retirees in line with global best practices.
Earlier, the President of AANDEC, retired Rear Adm. Patrick Agholor, commended the minister for his leadership and pledged the association’s readiness to support the Ministry of Defence through research, advisory services and high-level policy engagement.
Agholor appealed for the ministry’s support in strengthening AANDEC’s operational capacity, including logistics, office infrastructure and preparations for a forthcoming National Security Summit.
He reaffirmed the association’s commitment to collaborating with the ministry to advance strategic thinking and institutional reforms aimed at addressing Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.
The meeting was attended by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Richard Pheelangwa, and other senior officials.