Badaru urges Army War College graduands to lead with courage, integrity
Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has charged officers of the Nigerian Army War College to lead with courage, integrity, and humility as they take on higher responsibilities in defending the nation.
Speaking as Special Guest of Honour at the graduation ceremony of Army War College Nigeria (AWCN) Course 9/2025, held on Thursday, October 9, 2025, in Abuja, Badaru praised the graduating officers for their resilience through months of demanding academic and operational training.
Describing the event as “a true celebration of intellectual rigour, national investment, and military excellence,” the Minister lauded the Chief of Army Staff, the Commandant, and the faculty of AWCN for their commitment to developing operational-level leaders capable of addressing Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.
He urged the graduands to remain steadfast in professionalism and lifelong learning, stressing that modern military leadership demands adaptability to emerging threats, new technologies, and complex global dynamics.
“You must lead with integrity, courage, and humility. As custodians of our nation’s security, your actions and decisions will shape the safety and stability of our country,” he told the officers.
Badaru also expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his unwavering support for the Armed Forces under the Renewed Hope Agenda, noting that the administration’s investment in military modernization, joint training, and regional security cooperation continues to strengthen Nigeria’s defence architecture.
He said President Tinubu’s policies have placed the graduates at the centre of ongoing efforts to build a safer and more prosperous nation, where security remains the foundation for economic growth and national development.
The Minister further acknowledged the sacrifices of the officers’ families, describing them as “the unseen heroes whose patience and prayers sustain the Armed Forces.”
He welcomed the participation of allied students from other African countries in the course, noting that their presence not only broadened the scope of learning but also deepened regional military collaboration.
Badaru concluded by urging the graduates to uphold the values of discipline, patriotism, and honour in their future assignments.
“Always remember that you are the guardians of our nation’s security. Serve with pride, uphold our values, and never lose sight of the sacred trust placed in you,” he said.
