The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), has called for greater investment in industrialisation, strategic leadership and regional economic cooperation, describing them as essential to Africa’s economic prosperity, national security and long-term stability.
Musa spoke at the National Defence College (NDC), Abuja, during the graduation lecture for participants of Course 34. The lecture was delivered by former President Goodluck Jonathan on the theme, “Harnessing Industrial Capacity for Inclusive Growth and Regional Stability in Africa.”
The minister, in remarks contained in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Leah Katung-Babatunde, praised Jonathan for his contribution to discussions on industrial development and stability across the continent.
Musa said industrial capacity could no longer be viewed simply as an economic ambition, arguing that it had become a strategic necessity for countries seeking to remain competitive, create productive jobs and withstand economic and security challenges.
He stressed that Africa must move beyond exporting raw materials by turning its natural and human resources into finished products, technological innovations and sustainable economic opportunities.
According to the minister, economic prosperity and security are closely connected. He said lasting peace would be difficult to achieve without inclusive economic growth, while development itself could not be sustained where insecurity persists.
Musa identified strong institutions, reliable infrastructure, technological advancement and investment in human capital as key areas that African countries must strengthen to secure their future.
Musa Backs Stronger African Economic Integration
The Defence Minister also highlighted the importance of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), describing it as an important tool for expanding markets, encouraging regional cooperation and accelerating industrial development.
He said deeper economic integration would allow African countries to obtain greater value from their resources, increase trade, create employment and build economies that are better equipped to support peace and stability.
Musa added that stronger regional economic ties could help African countries become more resilient and reduce vulnerabilities that threaten their economic and security interests.
Charge to NDC Graduates
Addressing the graduating participants, Musa urged them to apply the knowledge and professional connections gained during their training to policymaking and leadership within their respective services, ministries, departments and agencies.
He encouraged the graduates to promote policies that combine economic development, national resilience, peace and security, rather than treating the issues separately.
The minister also commended the National Defence College for maintaining its position as a leading institution for strategic and professional military education in Nigeria.
He said the college’s contribution to leadership development and national capacity building remained important to the country’s future.
Musa congratulated the graduating participants and thanked former President Jonathan for delivering the graduation lecture before formally declaring the NDC Course 34 Graduation Lecture closed.
Source: Ministry of Defence.
