The Honourable Minister of Defence, H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, CON, mni, has charged the graduands of the Army War College Nigeria (AWCN) Course 9/2025 to uphold courage, integrity, and professionalism as they take on greater leadership responsibilities within the Armed Forces.
Delivering his address as the Special Guest of Honour at the College’s graduation ceremony held on Thursday, October 9, 2025, in Abuja, Badaru described the event as a “true celebration of intellectual rigour, national investment, and military excellence.”
He commended the Chief of Army Staff, the Commandant, and the faculty for their commitment to nurturing operational-level leaders capable of addressing contemporary security challenges. The Minister lauded the AWCN’s role in advancing professional military education, noting that the institution remains central to the development of Nigeria’s defence leadership.
Congratulating the graduands on completing their rigorous academic and operational training, the Minister urged them to lead with humility, courage, and unwavering integrity. He emphasized the importance of continuous learning and adaptability in tackling emerging threats and technologies that shape modern warfare.
Badaru also expressed profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his steadfast commitment to strengthening the Armed Forces under the Renewed Hope Agenda, which, he said, prioritises military modernisation, joint training, and regional security cooperation. According to him, “The Renewed Hope Agenda places you, the graduates, at the heart of efforts to build a safer and more prosperous Nigeria where security underpins national development.”
The Minister further acknowledged the support of the officers’ families, describing them as “the unseen heroes whose patience and prayers sustain the Armed Forces.” He also commended the inclusion of allied students from other African nations, noting that their participation fosters regional solidarity and cooperation.
In his closing remarks, Badaru charged the officers to remain loyal, disciplined, and patriotic in service to the nation. “Always remember that you are the guardians of our nation’s security. Serve with pride, uphold our values, and never lose sight of the sacred trust placed in you,” he said.