Bomba Dauda
The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd), has described education and teachers as critical components of Nigeria’s national security, saying the classroom is the “first line of defence” against ignorance, extremism, criminality and violent radicalisation.
Musa stated this on Wednesday in Kaduna while speaking at the National Association of Christian Educators of Nigeria (NACEN) conference themed “Emerging Challenges and Pathways for National Development.”
He said Nigeria’s security challenges, including terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, communal conflicts, cyber threats and violent extremism, could not be addressed through military action alone.
According to him, sustainable security requires a whole-of-society approach involving government, educators, religious and traditional leaders, parents and communities.
The Minister urged Christian educators to promote moral values, national unity and peaceful coexistence among young Nigerians, stressing that education must produce not only academically sound citizens but people of character and responsibility.
He also called for greater investment in human capital, youth empowerment, digital literacy, entrepreneurship and skills development, warning that unemployed and hopeless youths could become vulnerable to criminal and extremist groups.
Musa assured that the Armed Forces would continue to protect Nigerians and defend the nation’s territorial integrity, but stressed that lasting security must go hand in hand with education, employment, justice and development.
He urged NACEN to develop practical and sustainable solutions to the challenges confronting Nigeria and contribute to building a stronger, safer and more united country.
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