NDC Graduation Lecture: Defence Minister, Akufo-Addo Task Course 33 on Building Strong Institutions for Africa’s Development

The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has urged participants of National Defence College (NDC) Course 33 to deploy the strategic knowledge they have acquired towards strengthening institutions as a pathway to good governance, national development, and continental unity.

Speaking as Special Guest of Honour at the NDC Course 33 Graduation Lecture, themed “Strengthening Institutions for Good Governance in Africa,” the Minister underscored that robust institutions remain the bedrock of democracy and development across the continent. “Institutions hold great virtues that extend far beyond the act of governance. When institutions are weak, nations falter; but strong institutions attract good governance, economic growth, and stability,” he said. He added that inclusivity and transparency are vital to building citizens’ trust in governance and achieving sustainable development.

The Minister also praised regional organisations such as ECOWAS and the African Union for their role in promoting good governance and setting continental standards in trade, security, and democracy. He emphasised that such regional cohesion, anchored on strong institutions, enhances collective problem-solving and drives Africa’s development agenda more effectively.

Badaru called on the graduating participants to leverage the knowledge gained during their eleven-month course to create an enabling environment for peace, security, and development. “Development can only thrive where there is security. You must apply what you have learned to strengthen institutions that will deliver the Africa we all aspire to,” he urged.

He commended former President of Ghana, H.E. Nana Akufo-Addo, for personally delivering the Graduation Lecture, noting that building stronger institutions is a continuous process and affirming Nigeria’s readiness to lead reforms that contribute to Africa’s collective renewal.

Delivering his lecture, former President Akufo-Addo highlighted Africa’s progress since independence, particularly in the separation of powers among the three arms of government. He stressed that strengthening governance requires political will, citizen participation, and sustained investment in education to close governance deficits.

“Strong governance depends on public institutions operating free from political control and accountable to the people,” he said. He thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the opportunity to address the graduands and congratulated the Commandant, Rear Admiral James Okosun, alongside the College community, for the successful completion of Course 33.

Earlier in his welcome address, Rear Admiral Okosun described the Graduation Lecture as a central feature of the College’s graduation activities. He congratulated the participants for successfully completing their programme, urging them to uphold the values and knowledge gained.

In his vote of thanks, the Deputy Commandant and Director of Studies, Major General Kevin Ukandu, observed that the calibre of dignitaries present was a clear testimony that the College was on the right track to achieving its vision as a centre of excellence for strategic training.