“Be The Bridge Between Policy And Security Action” ….Perm Sec MOD Tells Ndc Participants

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Amb. Gabriel Aduda has emphasised that well-articulated and effectively implemented defence policies remain a critical and strategic pillar in safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity and promoting national security. He made this assertion while delivering a lecture to participants of Course 33 of the National Defence College (NDC), Abuja. The lecture, titled “Defence Policy and Implementation in Nigeria,” was part of the college’s academic programme under Module 9.

Amb. Aduda highlighted that effective implementation of defence policies is essential to achieving Nigeria’s national security objectives, noting that such policies serve as guiding frameworks for decision-making in defence and security matters. He further stated that the Ministry of Defence, as the lead institution in national defence affairs, continues to pursue the formulation and review of policies capable of addressing the myriad of security challenges currently facing the country. He pointed out that the 2011 Defence Policy focused on countering emerging security threats such as terrorism, kidnapping, banditry, and secessionist agitations.

Additionally, he said the 2017 Defence Policy aimed to initiate strategic reforms, including enhanced national security integration, deterrence strategies, and improved civil-military relations. Speaking on regional collaboration, the guest lecturer noted that Nigeria remains actively involved in regional security initiatives that promote cooperation with neighbouring countries facing similar threats. These partnerships, he said, have strengthened intelligence sharing, enabled joint operations, and facilitated the pooling of resources to confront shared security challenges.

Amb. Aduda stressed that successful implementation of defence policies requires synergy among all relevant agencies and stakeholders. “Commanders at various levels play a vital role in policy execution. It is expected that this lecture will equip you with the necessary understanding of defence policy so that upon graduation and deployment, you can begin implementing the knowledge acquired here,” he said. Amb Aduda also encouraged participants to pursue international defence cooperation through alliances, partnerships, and participation in multinational security initiatives to enhance national defence capabilities and promote mutual interests.

In his closing remarks, the Commandant of the NDC, Rear Admiral Olumuyiwa Olotu (represented by Deputy Commandant Major General Kelvin Ukandu), thanked Amb. Aduda for delivering a robust and enlightening lecture. He noted that the presentation had significantly enriched the participants’ knowledge and understanding of defence policy issues.

The lecture concluded with an interactive session between the guest lecturer and the participants, followed by the presentation of a souvenir in appreciation of his contribution.