The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, PhD, has emphasized that building a secure Nigeria requires a comprehensive approach that combines military effort with economic opportunity, social restoration, and national empowerment.
Representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, in Kaduna at the passing-out ceremony for cadets of the 73rd Regular Course and other commissioning courses at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Speaker Abbas described the occasion as more than a mere ceremony. He noted that it served as a vital reminder that national security depends not only on the courage of armed personnel, but also on the resilience and strength of the society they are sworn to protect.
Reiterating the President’s vision, the Speaker highlighted that addressing insecurity requires measures beyond kinetic operations. He pointed to job creation, macroeconomic stability, human capital development, and social protection as indispensable elements in the broader effort to achieve a safer and more prosperous nation.
Speaker Abbas expressed strong encouragement over the continuous transformation and growing international prestige of the NDA. He cited advanced training in counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency, alongside achievements in international military competitions and exchange programs, as evidence that Nigerian cadets match global standards of excellence. Furthermore, he commended the academy’s contributions to regional security, noting its role in training officers from across the African continent, thereby boosting military diplomacy, professional cooperation, and Nigeria’s leadership in defense education.
On broader foreign policy, the Speaker reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to regional stability. He stated that the nation will continue to uphold democracy, deepen regional cooperation, and advocate peaceful engagement across West Africa while maintaining a firm stance against unconstitutional changes of government.
Addressing the graduating officers directly, Speaker Abbas congratulated them and reminded them that their commission carries a sacred national responsibility. He urged the new officers to carry the Nigerian flag with honor, serve with courage, lead with discipline, and always uphold the trust reposed in them by millions of citizens.
In conclusion, Speaker Abbas affirmed that a nation’s security reaches its highest strength when brave soldiers, resilient institutions, and a hopeful populace align, wishing the graduates honorable and impactful service to the nation.
