President Bola Tinubu has called on participants of the National Defence College (NDC) to play a leading role in promoting inclusive governance and advancing Nigeria’s long-term development goals.
Addressing members of Course 33 during a visit to the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Thursday, the President emphasised that national progress depends on the effective mobilisation of the country’s human, material, and intellectual resources.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to empowering defence and security institutions to deliver highly skilled professionals capable of safeguarding the nation.
“It is our joint responsibility to ensure that this nation is productive and governed inclusively,” Tinubu said, according to a statement issued by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga.
The President added that resilience, patriotism, and long-term planning remain essential for building a prosperous and stable country.
Tinubu stressed the need for continuous training, economic development, and technological innovation, noting that these pillars were indispensable to Nigeria’s industrial transformation.
He praised the National Defence College for its contribution to research and policy development, saying its analytical work is vital to strengthening national power.
“We must develop strategic leaders equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate complex security challenges,” he said, commending the delegation for its dedication throughout the programme.
During the visit, the participants presented their research paper titled “Harnessing Indigenous Manufacturing for Enhanced National Security by 2040.”
The President assured them that the recommendations would be reviewed and considered for possible adoption.
Tinubu also addressed concerns about the stalled development of the college’s permanent site, acknowledging delays but urging patience as the government works to resolve outstanding issues.
Earlier, the Commandant of the College, Rear Admiral A. Ahmed, briefed the President on the institution’s progress.
He noted that the NDC
established in 1992 as Nigeria’s pinnacle of professional military education, enrolled 99 participants in Course 33, including officers drawn from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, and various government ministries and agencies.
The cohort also included 23 international participants from Africa, Asia, and South America, reflecting the college’s growing global relevance.
