By Harriet Tornguvan
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to sustained support for the National Defence College (NDC), Abuja, underscoring the importance of strategic partnerships in strengthening national security.
Lieutenant General Shaibu gave the assurance while receiving the Commandant of the National Defence College, Rear Admiral Abdullahi Ahmed, who paid a courtesy visit to the Army Headquarters.
According to a statement issued by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the COAS described the NDC as a critical national institution strategically positioned to provide advanced training for personnel of the Armed Forces as well as officers from Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).
He commended the Commandant’s efforts aimed at reviewing and strengthening the College’s curriculum, noting that evolving security threats demand continuous capacity building and innovative thinking.
"Your drive towards improved training and capacity development, not only for the Armed Forces but also for MDAs, is vital to our national security.
"Security concepts continue to evolve, and it is essential that participants are adequately equipped with current knowledge to safeguard our national interest, the COAS said.
Lieutenant General Shaibu further emphasized that national security has become a collective responsibility, extending beyond the Armed Forces and traditional security agencies.
Additionally, he advocated for a more inclusive curriculum that integrates key government institutions in addressing complex and emerging security challenges.
Earlier, the Commandant of the National Defence College, Rear Admiral Abdullahi Ahmed, praised the COAS for his firm, proactive and strategic leadership in tackling security challenges across the country. He noted that the dynamic nature of the security environment had necessitated periodic adjustments to the College’s curriculum to remain relevant and effective.
Rear Admiral Ahmed also sought the COAS’s insights and recommendations, drawing from his experience as a former student and Directing Staff of the institution. He expressed appreciation to the COAS and other Service Chiefs for their continued support to the National Defence College.
