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Tinubu Backs Local Arms Production, Vows Stronger Security Frontline

President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s defence capacity through increased local production of arms and ammunition, saying it is key to winning the fight against insurgency and reducing overreliance on foreign suppliers.

Speaking in Abuja at the graduation ceremony of Course 33 of the National Defence College (NDC), where he was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu said indigenous military manufacturing would sharpen the nation’s security response and drive sustainable development.

He hailed the College for its research culture, particularly its study on Harnessing Indigenous Manufacturing for Enhanced National Security and Development: Strategic Options for Nigeria by 2040, describing it as a blueprint for homegrown solutions.

“I have directed that stakeholders study and implement your recommendations. Strengthening indigenous manufacturing is indispensable to our security and development,” Tinubu said.

The President also underscored the importance of strong institutions, linking them to both security and development. “They uphold the rule of law, safeguard citizens’ rights, promote accountability, and deliver essential services. Without strong institutions, there can be no lasting democracy,” he stressed.

Citing reforms already underway, Tinubu pointed to renewed investor confidence in the economy, noting that the stock market has recorded a 48 percent year-on-year rise—the best in three decades. However, he admitted more work is needed to tackle inflation and food insecurity.

He further pledged to complete the permanent site of the National Defence College at Piwoyi and upgrade its infrastructure, with a vision of transforming it into a Defence Postgraduate University in the future.

To the graduands of Course 33—drawn from the Nigerian Army, Navy, Police, other national agencies, and friendly nations—Tinubu urged them to rise to the demands of a complex global security landscape shaped by cyber threats, geopolitical tensions, and regional instability.

“You have been trained to think and act strategically. You have been equipped to lead with vision and courage. Now, you must step forward as partners in delivering a new Nigeria of hope and stability,” he told the officers.

Earlier, the NDC Commandant, Rear Admiral J.O. Okosu, and his deputy, Major General Kevin Ukandu, praised the government’s support and expressed confidence that the graduating officers were equipped to tackle Nigeria’s pressing security challenges, from banditry to oil theft.

By Haruna Yakubu Haruna