Defence Minister: Education Remains Strongest Weapon Against Terrorism, Extremism
Oru Leonard
KADUNA — The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), has described education as one of the most effective tools for combating terrorism, violent extremism and insecurity, stressing that ignorance and hopelessness remain major drivers of radicalisation.
Speaking during the commissioning of the Kaduna Christian Academy in Ungwan Sunday, Sabon Tasha, Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State, General Musa said the Federal Government remains committed to expanding access to quality education as part of broader efforts to address Nigeria’s security challenges.
The school, constructed by the Department of State Services (DSS), was unveiled on Sunday as part of initiatives aimed at promoting community development and strengthening social resilience in vulnerable communities.
According to the Defence Minister, Nigeria is currently facing an asymmetric security challenge in which extremist groups thrive on misinformation, radicalisation and the exploitation of social vulnerabilities. He argued that education offers a sustainable solution by empowering young people with knowledge, critical thinking skills and opportunities for a better future.
Describing the academy as “a critical military asset without a single rifle,” Musa said lasting security can only be achieved through investments in human development.
“True and lasting security is anchored on the defeat of ignorance and the conquest of hopelessness. This school is a weapon of mass instruction in the right hands,” he stated.
The Minister commended the DSS for extending its role beyond conventional security operations, noting that the agency’s intervention demonstrates a commitment to winning public trust and fostering development. He highlighted that the academy follows an earlier DSS project that delivered a school for a Muslim community in Danbushiya, also in Chikun Local Government Area.
Musa said the two projects underscore the importance of inclusivity and inter-faith harmony, adding that security agencies must work closely with communities to build peace and stability.
He urged students, parents and community leaders to take ownership of the facility and protect it from vandalism, while encouraging teachers and administrators to uphold discipline and professionalism.
Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State, represented by the Commissioner for Justice, Barrister James Kanyip, welcomed the initiative and pledged continued collaboration between the state government, security agencies and private sector partners to promote development and improve access to education across the state.
The Kaduna Christian Academy was built through a partnership involving the DSS, Nest Global Resources, Dan Oil Exploration Limited and Tantina Security Services.
