Nigeria Needs Security to Grow Economy – Tinubu
President Bola Tinubu has said Nigeria’s economic ambitions cannot be achieved without first creating a secure environment where citizens and businesses can operate safely.
The President stated this on Friday at the graduation ceremony of Course 34 of the National Defence College in Abuja, where 103 participants received certificates after completing the programme.
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu said his administration would continue to strengthen the Armed Forces and other security institutions with the training, equipment and resources needed to tackle terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, piracy and organised crime.
He stressed that restoring peace to troubled communities must go hand in hand with creating economic opportunities for residents.
According to him, people are more likely to support and protect peace when they have opportunities to work, conduct businesses, acquire skills and improve their standard of living.
Tinubu also linked Nigeria’s security concerns to the wider challenge of transforming Africa’s economy. He said the continent would need stronger industries, regional trade networks, innovation and productive economies capable of providing jobs for its growing population.
The President further highlighted the importance of the African Continental Free Trade Area, saying greater industrialisation and regional economic integration could help reduce Africa’s vulnerabilities and improve its bargaining position globally.
On the domestic front, Tinubu said the Federal Government was working to create a more favourable environment for businesses and attract private investment. He pointed to ongoing investments in roads, railways, ports, energy and digital infrastructure as part of efforts to lower business costs, connect markets and strengthen national integration.
He added that the government was expanding capacity in agriculture, solid minerals, manufacturing, technology and the defence industry.
The President urged the graduating officers and officials to apply the expertise gained during their 47-week course to Nigeria’s security and development challenges. He also encouraged them to use the professional relationships established during the programme to promote cooperation and development across Africa.
The graduating class comprised personnel from the Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force and Police, alongside officials from government ministries and agencies and participants from other countries.
Earlier, the Commandant of the National Defence College, Rear Admiral Abdullahi Ahmed, said the programme exposed participants to contemporary security and development issues through research, seminars, field visits and defence management training.
He urged the graduates to put their knowledge to practical use in addressing challenges across Nigeria’s security and economic sectors.
