Defence Minister Urges Air War College Graduands To Embrace Innovation
The Minister of Defence, Dr Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has charged graduating officers of the Air War College to embrace innovation and proactive leadership in tackling Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.
Speaking at the College’s graduation ceremony in Makurdi on 24 September 2025, and represented by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, the Minister said the rise of terrorism, piracy, organised crime, and asymmetric warfare demands “innovative and proactive methods” from today’s military leaders.
He praised the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) for prioritising professional military education, describing the 37-week course as vital in building adaptable commanders capable of interpreting strategy and executing decisive air operations.
Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, warned the graduands to confront terrorism with urgency, declaring: “The future of airpower rests in your hands, and your ability to employ it decisively will strike at the very centre of gravity of the adversary.”
This year’s class saw 29 senior officers—including participants from Cameroon, Botswana, and Morocco, conferred with the Fellowship of the Air War College, Nigeria.
Awards went to Cdr PC Onah (Overall Best and Best Research Paper), Gp Capt CJ Mbam (Second Best), Wg Cdr EA Okeke (Third Best), and Lt Col PNE Nguoa of Cameroon (Best Allied Participant).
