Defence Minister calls for stronger collaboration between universities, security agencies and policymakers to develop sustainable solutions to Nigeria’s security challenges.
By Chioma Vivian James | Ibadan
The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), OFR, has called for stronger collaboration between academic institutions and security agencies, stressing that addressing Nigeria’s evolving security challenges requires intellectual capacity, research, innovation and strategic thinking beyond military operations.
Musa made the call during the commissioning of the CG Musa Security Management Hub at the TETFund Centre of Excellence, University of Ibadan, Oyo State, where he served as Special Guest of Honour.
Reflecting on the origin of the facility, which followed his lecture on global fragility and security management at the university in July 2025, the Defence Minister emphasised that sustainable national security could not be achieved through military force alone.
According to him, while the battlefield reveals the immediate manifestations of insecurity, universities provide the intellectual environment required to investigate its underlying causes, assess responses and develop lasting solutions.
“Having spent decades in military service, I have come to appreciate that effective security management begins long before the first shot is fired. We must anticipate threats long before they escalate into crises,” he said.
The Minister explained that the Federal Government, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, remained committed to strengthening national security through institutional reforms, improved operational capabilities, strategic partnerships and evidence-based analysis.
He disclosed that the Ministry of Defence had intensified operational efforts, noting that progress was gradually being recorded in addressing the country’s security challenges.
However, he stressed the importance of citizens’ participation through a whole-of-nation approach, urging Nigerians to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to relevant authorities.
“As the saying goes, if you see something, say something,” he added.
Musa described the newly commissioned hub as an important platform for advancing security research, strategic dialogue, professional development and practical innovation.
He urged the university management to establish collaborative programmes bringing together academics, military professionals, law enforcement agencies, policymakers and technology experts.
He identified intelligence analysis, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, conflict prevention, crisis management and community engagement as critical areas requiring sustained research and attention.
The Defence Minister also acknowledged the contributions of individuals and institutions that facilitated the successful completion of the project, including Professor B.A. Aluko, Professor Ayo Albert, the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 2 Division, personnel of the 2 Division Engineers and various departments of the university.
He commended the outgoing Vice-Chancellor, Professor K.O. Adebowale, congratulating him on the successful completion of his tenure and wishing him well in his future endeavours.
Reaffirming his commitment to the University of Ibadan, Musa assured the institution of his continued support towards advancing academic excellence and developing solutions to Nigeria’s national security challenges.
Earlier, Adebowale expressed appreciation to the Defence Minister for honouring the university’s invitation and ensuring that the project was delivered within the promised timeframe.
The commissioning marks an important step towards strengthening the relationship between academic research and national security management, particularly in developing knowledge-based responses to emerging security threats.
