The federal government has vowed to strengthen border security, improve veterans’ welfare, and review key defence policy documents to better address Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.
Defence Minister Christopher Musa made the remarks while receiving members of the Alumni Association of the National Defence College (AANDEC) in Abuja, a statement on Tuesday said.
Musa noted that Nigeria’s security environment is increasingly complex, stressing the need for periodic updates to defence frameworks.
He highlighted the National Defence Policy (2017) and its Implementation Guidelines (2019) as critical documents that require review to reflect 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 said the ministry would work with strategic stakeholders, including the permanent secretary, to commence structured engagements for reviewing key defence policies and instruments.
On border security, Musa described effective management as a central pillar of national security, calling for enhanced surveillance and better inter-agency coordination.
“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.
He also stressed the need to prioritise the welfare of military veterans, noting plans to improve healthcare access, benefits, and overall support for retired personnel in line with global best practices.
Earlier, AANDEC President Patrick Agholor praised Musa’s leadership and assured the association’s commitment to supporting the ministry through research, policy advice, and strategic engagement.
He appealed for support to strengthen the association’s operations and host a national security summit.
Agholor reaffirmed AANDEC’s readiness to collaborate with the ministry to deepen strategic thinking and institutional reforms for Nigeria’s security.
NAN
