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Defence Minister Inaugurates Strategic Committees to Strengthen National Security

by admin on | 2026-05-01 17:04:41

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Defence Minister Inaugurates Strategic Committees to Strengthen National Security

By Ahmad Sirajo Makama, Abuja

The Federal Government has taken steps to transition defence policy from intent to execution with the inauguration of three strategic technical committees by the Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd). The initiative is aimed at strengthening the national security architecture, advancing military planning, and enhancing veterans’ welfare.

The committees were inaugurated on Wednesday, 29 April 2026, at Ship House, Abuja, as part of the Ministry of Defence’s efforts to reinforce operational readiness, institutional coordination, and long-term resilience within Nigeria’s defence ecosystem.

According to General Musa, the move underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to the practical implementation of policies. He noted that the establishment of the committees represents a coordinated response to evolving security challenges and the need for structured, results-driven interventions.

The Technical Committee on Integrated Border Security System has been mandated to review existing frameworks and develop a coordinated, intelligence-driven, and technology-enabled approach to securing Nigeria’s extensive land and maritime borders. Its focus includes interoperability, real-time information sharing, and inter-agency collaboration.

The Defence Sector Capital Requirements Plan Committee is tasked with developing a comprehensive 5–10 year investment framework aligned with national security priorities and fiscal realities. This includes assessing existing infrastructure, identifying capability gaps, and projecting future requirements in response to emerging threats and technological advancements.

The Committee on Veterans Welfare and Institutional Reform will focus on strengthening welfare systems, improving access to support services, and introducing a standardized national dress code for veterans to promote dignity, uniformity, and alignment with global best practices while reflecting Nigeria’s military heritage.

General Musa charged members of the committees to execute their mandates with professionalism, diligence, and accountability, stressing the importance of stakeholder engagement, transparency, and value for money in delivering practical and implementable outcomes.

All committees have been given a one-month timeline to submit comprehensive reports with clear recommendations and implementation roadmaps. The Ministry assured full institutional support for the successful execution of their assignments.

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Mr Richard Pheelangwah, commended the Minister’s leadership and reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to advancing national security objectives and improving the welfare of serving and retired personnel. He urged committee members to approach the assignment with patriotism and a strong sense of national service.

The inauguration marks a significant step in ongoing efforts to modernise Nigeria’s defence framework, strengthen institutional capacity, and enhance national resilience in a rapidly evolving security environment.