By Harriet Tornguvan -Abuja
The Nigeria’s Minister of Defence has called for a transformation in the Armed Forces’ training strategies to match the complexities of the evolving security landscape, urging a shift towards performance-oriented, tech-driven, and anticipatory training models.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 2025 Defence Training Conference held at the Armed Forces Officers’ Mess, Asokoro, Abuja, the Minister underscored the urgency of aligning training with the realities of modern threats such as terrorism, cyber warfare, transnational crime, and hybrid warfare.
Additionally, the Minister praised the Chief of Defence Staff and the Defence Headquarters for organizing what he described as a “critical strategic forum” and highlighted the importance of joint training, inter-agency collaboration, and technological integration in military education.
“We can no longer afford to train for the threats of yesterday. Our Armed Forces must be equipped for the uncertainties of tomorrow,” he said. “This includes embracing artificial intelligence, unmanned systems, cyber capabilities, and space defence.”
He emphasized the Federal Government’s ongoing commitment to revamping the country’s defence training architecture, citing plans to upgrade training facilities, promote innovation, and foster global partnerships with international military institutions.
The Minister also stressed the importance of combined operations such as AFRICAN LION, OBANGAME EXPRESS, and ECOWAS Standby Force exercises, calling for enhanced interoperability across the military services and security agencies.
Beyond strategic planning, he called for greater attention to the human dimension of training, including improved welfare, leadership development, and mental health support for personnel.
“This conference should not end as a mere academic gathering. Let it produce actionable recommendations that can strengthen operational readiness and enhance national security,” he added.
The Minister reaffirmed the Ministry’s support for the Armed Forces and expressed gratitude to international partners,
