Ministry of Defence Nigeria (2025)

13/07/2025

MINISTRY OF DEFENCE

PRESS RELEASE

SUNDAY, 13TH JULY 2025

PASSING ON OF FORMER PRESIDENT MUHAMMADU BUHARI: A GREAT LOSS TO THE ENTIRE NATION- MATAWALLE

The Honourable Minister of of State for Defence H.E. Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle MON, extend his heartfelt condolences to the family of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Sunday in London, and described his passing as a significant loss for the nation, particularly at a time when Nigeria could greatly benefit from his leadership style. He noted the important strides made in the defence sector under Buhari’s administration, particularly in empowering the Nigerian military to combat insecurity.

Minister Matawalle expressed that the loss is huge, not only for the Buhari family but for the entire nation that he served with unwavering dedication and commitment. He emphasized that during his tenure, President Buhari demonstrated a steadfast commitment to the development and progress of Nigeria.

He highlighted that late President Buhari will be remembered for his resilience, focus on national integrity, and visionary leadership aimed at fostering a prosperous Nigeria.

“The legacy he leaves behind will continue to inspire future generations as we navigate the challenges of nation-building,” he stated.

PATIENCE ITUKE
Principal Superintendent of Press (PSP)
for :Director of Information and Public Relations

13/07/2025

MINISTRY OF DEFENCE

PRESS RELEASE

SUNDAY, 13TH JULY 2025

CONDOLENCES ON THE PASSING OF FORMER PRESIDENT MUHAMMADU BUHARI

The Honourable Minister of Defence H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar CON, mni, extends his deepest condolences to the family of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Sunday in London.

Minister Badaru expressed that this loss is profound, not only for the Buhari family but for the entire nation that he served with unwavering dedication and commitment. He emphasized that during his tenure, President Buhari demonstrated a steadfast commitment to the development and progress of Nigeria.

In his statement, Minister Badaru said: “On behalf of the Ministry of Defence and the Nigerian Armed Forces, I convey our heartfelt condolences to the family, government, and people of Nigeria, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on the passing of Former President Muhammadu Buhari. We remember his dedication to democracy, stability, and the unity of our nation, as well as his unwavering commitment to the anti-corruption crusade, which endeared him to many Nigerians.

“May Allah grant him Aljana Firdausi and provide his family and all Nigerians with the fortitude to bear this great loss.”

Patience Ituke
Principal Superintendent of Press(PSP)
for: Director of Information and Public Relations

11/07/2025

MINISTRY OF DEFENCE

PRESS RELEASE

FRIDAY, 11TH JULY 2025

STRATEGIC DEFENCE: A VITAL TOOL FOR SOVEREIGNTY, PEACE, AND SOCIO-ECONOMIC PROGRESS - BADARU

The Honourable Minister of Defence H. E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar CON, mni, has underscored the importance of strategic defence management as a crucial instrument for safeguarding national sovereignty, maintaining peace, and fostering socioeconomic development.

Speaking at the National Defence Academy Course 33 in Abuja, Badaru commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for prioritizing security development in Nigeria. The lecture, titled “Strategic Defence Management in Nigeria: Ministry of Defence in Perspective,” outlined the Ministry’s pivotal role in addressing the country’s evolving security challenges through institutional reforms, strategic planning, and collaborative defence mechanisms.

He emphasized the complexity of Nigeria’s current security environment, characterized by the interplay of various actors, including state forces, insurgents, civil society, the media, and foreign interests, all operating within a volatile regional and global context. He reiterated that effective strategic defence management is essential not only for preserving sovereignty and peace but also for driving socioeconomic progress.

He said that with a population exceeding 200 million and a dynamic economy, Nigeria is confronting a wide array of security threats, including insurgency in the North-East, banditry and communal violence in the North-West and North-Central, secessionist movements and oil theft in the South, as well as maritime insecurity in the Gulf of Guinea. In addition, he highlighted the impact of regional instability in the Sahel and Nigeria’s leadership role within ECOWAS and the African Union in shaping national defence policies.

The Minister praised President Tinubu’s administration for recognizing the strong connection between national security and development. He noted ongoing reforms aimed at recalibrating Nigeria’s security architecture through capacity building, military modernization, and investment in local defence production. According to him, the success of these reforms significantly depends on the effectiveness of the Ministry of Defence as the apex body for military oversight and strategic coordination.

Highlighting the core responsibilities of the Ministry of Defence, Badaru explained that it is tasked with formulating and executing the National Defence Policy, ensuring the readiness of the Armed Forces, and driving strategic initiatives that integrate defence planning, policy, and resource management. He stressed that efficient defence management must be grounded in forward-looking frameworks aligned with both national interests and global realities.

In conclusion, the Minister reaffirmed the Ministry of Defence’s commitment to enhancing operational efficiency, strengthening transparency, and promoting multi-sectoral partnerships. He advocated for a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach to security, integrating military, economic, and diplomatic strategies to safeguard Nigeria’s territorial integrity and protect citizens from internal and external threats.

In his remarks, the Commandant of the National Defence College, Rear Admiral James Ohimai Okosun, expressed gratitude to Minister Badaru for delivering a timely and insightful lecture, describing it as essential for shaping the future of military leadership. He also commended the ongoing reforms under the Minister’s leadership, noting that they are setting new standards in defence governance and institutional efficiency.

Mati Ali
PA Media & Publicity to the Honourable Minister

10/07/2025

PHOTO NEWS:

THE HONOURABLE MINISTER OF DEFENCE H. E. MOHAMMED BADARU ABUBAKAR CON, mni ON WEDNESDAY, 9TH JULY 2025, RECEIVED IN AUDIENCE THE PRESIDENT OF THE NIGERIAN CHAPTER OF THE INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE FEDERATION (FIABCI), MR. AKIN OPATOLA, AT HIS OFFICE IN THE MINISTRY’S HEADQUARTERS, SHIP HOUSE, ABUJA.

THE VISIT PROVIDED AN OPPORTUNITY FOR FIABCI NIGERIA TO EXPLORE POTENTIAL AREAS OF COLLABORATION WITH THE MINISTRY OF DEFENCE.

08/07/2025

PHOTO NEWS:

THE PERMANENT SECRETARY MINISTRY OF DEFENCE, AMBASSADOR GABRIEL TANIMU ADUDA, REPRESENTED THE HONOURABLE MINISTER OF DEFENCE H.E. MOHAMMED BADARU ABUBAKAR, CON, mni , AT THE COMMISSIONING CEREMONY OF THE JOINT DOCTRINE AND WARFARE CENTER NIGERIA ON TUESDAY, 8TH JULY 2025.

THE EVENT WAS ATTENDED BY HIGH PROFILE DIGNITARIES, MARKING AN IMPORTANT MILESTONE IN ENHANCING NIGERIA’S MILITARY CAPABILITIES.

08/07/2025

PHOTO NEWS:

THE PERMANENT SECRETARY MINISTRY OF DEFENCE, AMBASSADOR GABRIEL TANIMU ADUDA, REPRESENTED THE HONOURABLE MINISTER OF DEFENCE H.E. MOHAMMED BADARU ABUBAKAR, CON, mni , AT THE COMMISSIONING CEREMONY OF THE JOINT DOCTRINE AND WARFARE CENTER NIGERIA ON TUESDAY, 8TH JULY 2025.

THE EVENT WAS ATTENDED BY HIGH PROFILE DIGNITARIES, MARKING AN IMPORTANT MILESTONE IN ENHANCING NIGERIA’S MILITARY CAPABILITIES.

02/07/2025

PHOTO NEWS

The Permanent
Secretary Ministry of Defence Ambassador Gabriel Aduda was a guest speaker at the National Defence College where he delivered lecture on the theme "Defence Policy implementation in Nigeria and the role of Ministry of Defence" on Tuesday 1 July 2025 in Abuja

The lecture was delivered to course 33 participants of the National Defence College .

01/07/2025

MINISTRY OF DEFENCE

PRESS RELEASE

TUESDAY, 1ST JUNE 2025

FIRST BATCH OF 800 ELITE SPECIAL OPERATIONS FORCES GRADUATES TO BOOST NIGERIA’S FIGHT AGAINST INSECURITY

The Honourable Minister of State for Defence H. E. Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, MON, announced that the graduation of the first batch of 800 elite Special Operations Forces (SOF) represents a significant advancement in the Federal Government’s commitment to combatting insecurity in Nigeria. The ceremony took place at Camp Kabala, Jaji, Kaduna.

Dr. Matawalle emphasized that this initiative is part of the Federal Government’s strategic commitment to enhance national security through advanced military training and collaborative operations. Under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, the government is undertaking comprehensive measures to modernize the Armed Forces, incorporating specialized training, state-of-the-art equipment, and integrated intelligence systems.

Addressing the newly graduated troops, Dr. Matawalle stated, “You are now Nigeria’s frontline guardians in our collective war against terror, banditry, kidnapping, and insurgency. You embody the resolve of our nation—proof that Nigeria will not succumb to fear.” He reminded them that while they are equipped with world-class tools and tactics, victory in battle is determined by character, discipline, and unwavering commitment.

As these elite forces prepare for deployment in high-risk areas, including Zamfara, Kaduna, and the North-East, Dr. Matawalle urged them to remember that their mission is not one of conquest, but of peace. “You carry not just arms, but the honour of the Nigerian Armed Forces and the hopes of every Nigerian—farmers, students, children, and elders. Be swift, be strategic, be just. Operate with precision. Fight with courage. Lead with honour. And always protect with humanity,” he stressed.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Ambassador Gabriel Tanimu Aduda, commended the dedication and resilience displayed by both the trainees and their instructors. “The Special Operations Forces are a vital pillar in our national defence architecture. Their elite skills are indispensable in countering insurgency, terrorism, and other evolving asymmetric threats,” he stated. Ambassador Aduda reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to building a modern, professional, and highly motivated military capable of addressing contemporary threats with precision and confidence.

In his remarks, Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, urged the graduates to uphold the highest standards of discipline and ethics. “The Armed Forces is a disciplined and dignified institution,” he noted. “Let your moral compass guide every mission. Protect the innocent, uphold our laws, and honour your uniform.”

He expressed gratitude to Mr. President,Ministers of Defence, the Permanent Secretary, training directors, and all contributors to the success of the programme.

The graduation of this first cohort of Special Operations Forces marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to enhance its defence capabilities and respond effectively to internal and external security challenges.

Echi Ochanya Kate
Principal superintendent of Press (PSP)

For: Director Information and Public Relations

01/07/2025

PHOTO NEWS:

THE HONOURABLE MINISTER OF STATE FOR DEFENCE H. E. DR. BELLO MOHAMMED MATAWALLE MON WAS THE SPECIAL GUEST OF HONOUR AT THE GRADUATION CEREMONY OF THE FIRST BATCH OF 800 ELITE SPECIAL OPERATIONS FORCES ON MONDAY, 30TH JUNE 2025 AT CAMP KABALA, JAJI IN KADUNA STATE.

ALSO AT THE CEREMONY WERE THE PERMANENT SECRETARY MINISTRY OF DEFENCE, AMBASSADOR GABRIEL TANIMU ADUDA, THE CHIEF OF DEFENCE STAFF. GENERAL CG MUSA AND A HOST OF OTHER CIVILIAN AND MILITARY DIGNITARIES.

29/06/2025

MINISTRY OF DEFENCE

PRESS RELEASE

PRESS RELEASE

SUNDAY, 29TH JUNE 2025

BADARU CHAIRS AANI 45TH AGM; CALLS FOR SUSTAINABLE NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT THROUGH POLICY ADVOCACY

The Honourable Minister of Defence H.E. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar CON, mni, officially opened the 45th Annual General Meeting of the Alumni Association of the National Institute (AANI) at the NIPSS Main Auditorium in Kuru, Jos. Themed “Towards a New Nigeria,” the event was hosted by the Plateau State Government and gathered prominent figures from various sectors.

In his opening remarks, Minister Badaru emphasized the crucial role of policy makers and security experts in fostering sustainable national development. He highlighted the significant progress made by the military, in collaboration with other security agencies, in combating insecurity across the nation. “We have achieved meaningful strides in dismantling terrorist and bandit cells, neutralizing hundreds of insurgents and their key leaders,” he stated.

The Minister urged the AANI to enhance its advocacy efforts and support for national security reforms. He stressed that the collective expertise of the Association’s members is vital for building a united, secure, and prosperous Nigeria. As a proud alumnus of SEC 28/2006, he expressed his gratitude to the AANI Executive Committee for their unwavering commitment to national service. He called upon all members to reaffirm their dedication to the Association’s ideals and collaborate towards a better society and a brighter future for the nation.

The event was graced by distinguished dignitaries, including His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, the Sultan of Sokoto, and AANI President, Amb. Emmanuel Obi Okafor, mni, along with other esteemed alumni.

MATI ALI
P.A to the Hon minister on media and Publicity

26/06/2025

MINISTRY OF DEFENCE

PRESS RELEASE

THURSDAY, 26TH JUNE 2025

BADARU OPENS 2025 DEFENCE TRAINING CONFERENCE, ADVOCATES FOR PERFORMANCE-ORIENTED, FUTURE-DRIVEN TRAINING FOR THE ARMED FORCES

The Honourable Minister of Defence H.E. Mohammed Abubakar Badaru CON, mni, officially opened the 2025 Defence Training Conference today, calling for a transformative approach to training within the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

Themed “Performance-Oriented Training and Trends in the Contemporary Operating Environment,” the conference took place at the Armed Forces Officers’ Mess in Asokoro, Abuja. In his opening remarks, Minister Badaru stressed the necessity of adapting training methodologies to meet the complex and evolving security challenges facing Nigeria today.

“We are no longer engaged in yesterday’s conflicts. The threats we confront are asymmetric, borderless, and increasingly sophisticated. Our training programs must evolve to reflect these realities,” the Minister asserted.

In outlining the strategic direction of the Ministry of Defence, Minister Badaru identified several key focus areas, including:

• Modernization of training facilities
• Integration of cyber and space capabilities
• Joint inter-agency and international military exercises
• Enhanced collaboration with global military institutions

He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to investing in the human element of national defence, emphasizing the importance of improved welfare, leadership development, and the psychological resilience of military personnel.

The Minister encouraged participants to engage in meaningful discussions on critical issues such as the utilization of simulation technology, the development of modular training systems, and the strengthening of civil-military relations to bolster national development.

Minister Badaru commended the Defence Headquarters for organizing the event and praised the Armed Forces for their unwavering commitment to professionalism and national service.

“The 2025 Defence Training Conference must not remain theoretical. It should result in actionable outcomes that enhance our operational effectiveness both domestically and internationally,” he concluded.

This event represents a significant step forward in Nigeria’s efforts to cultivate a more adaptable, technologically advanced, and strategically aligned military force.

Mati Ali
PA Media & Publicity to the Honourable Minister of Defence

26/06/2025

PHOTO NEWS

THE PERMANENT SECRETARY MINISTRY OF DEFENCE AMBASSADOR GABRIEL TANIMU ADUDA ATTENDED THE INTERNATIONAL CIVIL SERVICE CONFERENCE 2025 AT EAGLE SQUARE ABUJA ON 25TH JUNE 2025.
THE CONFERENCE WAS ORGANIZED BY THE OFFICE OF THE HEAD OF THE CIVIL SERVICE OF THE FEDERATION IN WHICH AMBASSADOR ADUDA WAS A MODERATOR.

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