HASHIMU SA’AD ABDULLAHI
The Honourable Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, CON, has charged the graduating participants of Army War College Nigeria (AWCN) Course 9/2025 to confront the nation’s evolving security landscape with confidence, innovation and strategic foresight. He made this call on 10 October 2025 at the Tukur Yusufu Buratai Auditorium, Asokoro, Abuja, during the College’s graduation ceremony.
Speaking as Special Guest of Honour, the Minister noted that the nature of modern threats is becoming more complex and unpredictable, demanding strategic leaders who can act decisively under pressure. He stated: “The world of today is dynamic and the threats we face are increasingly complex. As officers trained in the art of operational level planning, you will be called upon to provide solutions in uncertain, fluid and often hostile environments. I urge you to face these challenges with confidence, innovation and determination as fellows of the Army War College Nigeria. I am confident that the training you have received here has adequately prepared you to think critically, act decisively, and adapt swiftly to the changing nature of conflict.”
The Minister commended the Commandant, Faculty and Staff of the College for their commitment to grooming operational-level leaders capable of navigating complex security environments. He also acknowledged the sacrifices of the families of the graduands and appreciated the unwavering support of the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR.
Earlier in his welcome remarks, the Commandant of the College, Umar Mohammed Alkali, Major General, welcomed the Minister and other dignitaries to the Nigerian Army’s apex institution for professional military education. He highlighted the College’s steady evolution since its establishment in 2017, including modernised infrastructure, strengthened inter-agency collaboration and the inauguration of the AWCN Alumni Association. He also noted the international participation in Course 9/2025, which featured 80 officers including 9 from six African countries, enriching professional discourse and regional cooperation.
Highlights of the ceremony included the unveiling of the College Journal/Magazine, presentation of awards to the best deserving graduates by the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General OO Oluyede, NAM, presentation of certificates to the participants, and a group photograph session to commemorate the occasion.
