By Joy Odor, Abuja
In a stirring call to duty, Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, CON, mni, has charged newly graduated officers of the Army War College Nigeria (AWCN) to lead the nation’s military with unflinching courage, integrity, and professionalism, warning that the burden of national security now rests squarely on their shoulders.
Speaking as Special Guest of Honour at the graduation ceremony of AWCN Course 9/2025 in Abuja, Badaru described the event as “a true celebration of intellectual rigour, national investment and military excellence.”
He commended the Chief of Army Staff, the Commandant, and the faculty and staff of the College for their dedication to shaping operational-level leaders critical to Nigeria’s defence architecture.
Badaru urged the graduands to embrace leadership rooted in discipline, humility, and lifelong learning, noting that modern military command demands constant adaptation to emerging global threats and technologies.
“Always remember that you are the guardians of our nation’s security,” he charged. “Serve with pride, uphold our values, and never lose sight of the sacred trust placed in you.”
The Minister expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his unwavering support to the Armed Forces under the Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises military modernization, joint training, and regional security cooperation.
He said Tinubu’s defence agenda places the new graduates “at the heart of efforts to build a safer and more prosperous Nigeria where security remains the foundation of national development.”
Badaru also paid glowing tribute to the families of the officers, describing them as “the unseen heroes whose patience and prayers sustain the Armed Forces.”
Acknowledging the participation of allied students from other African nations, the Minister said their inclusion strengthens regional solidarity and collective defence cooperation across the continent.
As the officers stepped into new command roles, Badaru’s charge was unmistakable, lead with courage, integrity, and patriotism and never waver in defending Nigeria’s sovereignty.
