Tinubu Urges Newly Graduated Officers to Drive Nigeria’s Security Reforms

President emphasises patriotism, discipline and inter-agency collaboration as AFCSC graduates officers at Jaji

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has charged newly graduated officers of the Armed Forces Command and Staff College (AFCSC), Jaji, to take the lead in Nigeria’s ongoing security reforms, urging them to rise to the demands of an increasingly complex security environment confronting the nation.

The President gave the charge at the Joint Graduation Ceremony of Senior Course 47 and Junior Course 100 of the AFCSC, held at the Major General Bulama Biu Parade Ground, Jaji Military Cantonment, Kaduna State. He was represented at the event by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, CON.

Describing the ceremony as a reaffirmation of the core values of discipline, patriotism and service that define the Nigerian Armed Forces, Tinubu congratulated the graduating officers, noting that their success reflected years of sacrifice, resilience and commitment to national service.

He stressed that the evolving nature of modern security threats requires not only courage and tactical proficiency but also strategic foresight, inter-agency cooperation and strict adherence to democratic values and the rule of law.

“Graduating today at this critical juncture in our national and global history places upon you a solemn duty,” the President said. “Traditional and non-traditional threats, ranging from terrorism and insurgency to cyber warfare, maritime insecurity and climate-induced conflicts, continue to evolve in scope and complexity.

“For Nigeria, these challenges demand not only courage and tactical proficiency but also strategic foresight, inter-agency collaboration and adherence to democratic values and the rule of law.”

Tinubu reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening the nation’s security architecture, improving the welfare of military personnel and enhancing synergy among the armed forces, intelligence agencies and civil institutions in the pursuit of peace and stability.

The President also commended the Armed Forces Command and Staff College for its long-standing role as a centre of excellence, producing officers who have provided leadership during peace and conflict within Nigeria and across international peacekeeping missions under ECOWAS, the African Union and the United Nations.

According to him, the College’s blend of academic rigour, field training and multinational collaboration has continued to strengthen Nigeria’s defence and security capacity.

He further pledged his administration’s commitment to deepening the modernisation of the Armed Forces through upgraded training infrastructure, enhanced operational capabilities and improved living conditions for officers and their families, as part of a broader agenda to build a safe, stable and prosperous Nigeria.

While emphasising unity within the military, Tinubu reminded the officers that they represent Nigeria’s diversity, united by a common oath to defend the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. He warned that misinformation, ethnic tension and divisive narratives pose serious threats to national cohesion, urging the Armed Forces to remain professional, impartial and loyal to constitutional authority to sustain public confidence.

Charging the graduates to see the occasion as a new beginning, the President urged them to apply the leadership qualities, analytical skills and operational competence acquired at Jaji in service to the nation and humanity.

“Be bold in leadership, innovative in strategy and humble in service. Uphold integrity and discipline at all times. Continue to mentor those coming behind you, and never lose sight of the sacred trust the nation has placed in you,” he said.

Members of the presidential entourage at the ceremony included former Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom; Senator Jack Gyado; Professor Iorwuese Hagher; General Benedict Williams (rtd); and Air Vice Marshal James Gbum (rtd), among others.

The Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji, is one of Nigeria’s foremost military institutions, established to train mid-level and senior officers of the Nigerian Armed Forces, as well as officers from allied countries. Its programmes are designed to prepare officers for higher command and staff responsibilities through a combination of academic instruction, operational planning and field exercises.

Senior and Junior Staff Courses at the College are critical components of Nigeria’s military professional development system, equipping officers with the skills required for joint operations, strategic decision-making and leadership in complex security environments.

President Tinubu’s charge to the graduating officers comes amid renewed efforts by the Federal Government to reform Nigeria’s security sector, improve coordination among security agencies and respond more effectively to emerging threats such as terrorism, banditry, cybercrime and climate-related conflicts.

These reforms are aimed at strengthening national security while upholding democratic principles, human rights and the rule of law—key pillars the administration considers essential for sustainable peace and stability.