The Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa, has stated that enduring national security depends on overcoming ignorance, eliminating hopelessness, and protecting democratic principles.
According to a statement issued on Saturday by his Special Adviser on Media, Leah Katung-Babatunde, Musa made the remarks on Friday while addressing attendees at the June 12 Special Edition of The Platform Nigeria in Lagos.
He emphasised that sustainable economic progress is only possible in an environment where security is assured.
“When we speak of national defence, the instinct is to focus on boots on the ground, air power, or intelligence gathering.
“But true and lasting security is anchored on one critical element: the defeat of ignorance and the conquest of hopelessness.
“No democracy can flourish where fear dominates daily life,” he said.
Giving an overview of the country’s security landscape, the minister highlighted achievements by the Armed Forces, including the elimination of prominent terrorist figures and the dismantling of significant criminal operations.
He cautioned, however, that emerging threats such as banditry, kidnapping, cybercrime, and transnational violent extremism continue to evolve, becoming more sophisticated and increasingly linked.
Musa also honoured those whose sacrifices paved the way for Nigeria’s democracy, stressing that contemporary security challenges demand a swift, technology-driven transformation of the country’s defence approach.
