Defence Minister: Education Key Weapon Against Terrorism, Says Security Is Built on Knowledge
Defence Minister: Education Key Weapon Against Terrorism, Says Security Is Built on Knowledge
Defence Minister: Education Key Weapon Against Terrorism, Says Security Is Built on Knowledge
The Honourable Minister of Defence, Christopher Gwabin Musa, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to defeating terrorism and violent extremism through expanded access to quality education in underserved communities.
He made the remarks on Sunday, 7 June 2026, during the commissioning of the Kaduna Christian Academy in Ungwan Bulus, Sabon Tasha, Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State. The school was constructed by the Department of State Services (DSS) in partnership with private organisations.
Describing Nigeria’s security situation as an “asymmetric war,” the Minister said terrorist groups rely heavily on radicalisation and misinformation, stressing that the most effective response is education delivered in safe and inclusive environments.
“As Minister of Defence, I view this school as a critical military asset without a single rifle,” he said. “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 explained that the commissioning went beyond ceremony, describing it as a demonstration of inter-agency cooperation, community resilience, and the human-focused dimension of national security.
The Kaduna Christian Academy was constructed by the Department of State Services in collaboration with Nest Global Resources, Dan Oil Exploration Limited, and Tantina Security Services.
The project follows a similar initiative by the DSS in Danbushiya, also in Chikun LGA, where a school was built to serve the Muslim community as part of efforts to promote inclusive development and social cohesion.
According to Musa, the DSS is increasingly playing a broader role in national development beyond intelligence gathering and enforcement.
“We see the DSS in a different light – as builders of the future,” he said. “Internal security is not just about surveillance and arrests. It is about winning the confidence of the people.”
He urged residents of the area to take ownership of the facility, noting its importance for students, parents, and the wider Kaduna State community.
He described the school as a place of hope for students, a reassurance for parents, and a contribution to the state’s broader education and security strategy.
Governor Uba Sani, represented by the Commissioner for Justice, Barr. James Kanyip, welcomed the initiative and pledged continued collaboration between the state government, security agencies, and private partners to strengthen development and security.
The Minister further called on school authorities and community members to protect the facility and ensure it serves as a symbol of unity, resilience and long-term investment in peacebuilding.
Defence Minister: Education Key Weapon Against Terrorism, Says Security Is Built on Knowledge
