Defence Minister Tasks Universities on Innovation, Cybersecurity for National Stability
The Minister of Defence, Christopher Gwabin Musa, has charged Nigerian universities to prioritise innovation, cybersecurity, and technology-driven research as critical pillars for strengthening national security and long-term stability.
Musa made the call on Thursday while delivering the Convocation Lecture at the combined convocation ceremony of Akwa Ibom State University, at main campus in Ikot Akpaden, Mkpat Enin Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
In his address, the Defence Minister emphasised that the evolving nature of global threats—ranging from terrorism to cyber warfare—has redefined the concept of national defence, making it imperative for Nigeria to adopt a knowledge-driven security framework anchored on education, innovation, and human capital development.
He noted that modern security challenges require more than conventional military responses, stressing that universities must play a strategic role in producing skilled manpower, advancing research, and fostering values that promote national cohesion and resilience.
“National defence today is not solely the preserve of the armed forces,” Musa said. “It requires a whole-of-nation approach in which our universities serve as key drivers of innovation, research, and capacity building.”
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The minister called for deeper collaboration between the defence establishment, government institutions, and the academic community to effectively respond to emerging and complex security threats. He also underscored the need for sustained investment in education and the deliberate alignment of academic programmes with national security priorities, particularly in areas such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and data systems.
Musa further advocated structured partnerships between universities and defence institutions as a pathway to building a modern, self-reliant, and responsive national security architecture.
According to him, national defence is a collective responsibility that extends beyond the military to all sectors of society, especially the education sector, which he described as the backbone of sustainable development and security.
Addressing the graduating students, the Defence Minister urged them to embrace discipline, innovation, and a strong sense of duty as future leaders and nation builders.
He encouraged them to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s stability, progress, and prosperity, noting that their knowledge and skills would be vital in navigating the country’s complex security landscape.
The lecture formed part of activities marking the university’s combined convocation ceremony, attended by graduands, academics, and other dignitaries from within and outside the state.
The statement was signed by Queeneth Iheoma-Hart, Chief Information Officer, for the Director of Information and Public Relations at the Ministry of Defence.
By PRNigeria
