The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), has described education as one of the most powerful tools for combating terrorism, violent extremism and insecurity in Nigeria.
Musa stated this during the inauguration of the Kaduna Christian Academy in Ungwan Sunday, Sabon Tasha, Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State. The school was built by the Department of State Services in collaboration with private partners.
According to a statement issued by his media aide, Leah Katung-Babatunde, the minister said Nigeria’s security challenges require more than military action, stressing that education plays a critical role in addressing radicalisation, ignorance and misinformation often exploited by extremist groups.
He described the school as a strategic investment in national security, noting that lasting peace can only be achieved when people are empowered through knowledge and hope.
Musa commended the DSS for extending its role beyond intelligence and law enforcement to community development, saying the agency had demonstrated that security also involves improving the welfare and future of citizens.
He noted that investing in education helps build trust between communities and security institutions while reducing the conditions that fuel insecurity.
The minister described the academy as a symbol of resilience, partnership and people-centred security, adding that the facility would contribute to the development of young people and strengthen efforts to promote peace in the community.
He urged residents to take ownership of the school and ensure its protection and sustainability for future generations.
Addressing the students, Musa encouraged them to embrace learning, discipline and good values, stressing that education remains a pathway to a brighter future.
He also assured parents that the project reflected government’s commitment to supporting communities and expanding access to quality education.
The minister said the academy would complement ongoing efforts by the Kaduna State Government to improve educational opportunities while promoting community development and social inclusion.
Although established to serve the Christian community, he noted that the school represents unity, peaceful coexistence and inclusive development, similar to an earlier educational project built for the Muslim community.
Musa further charged the management and staff of the school to maintain high standards of excellence, while calling on young people in the area to protect the facility and support efforts aimed at building a safer society.
He reiterated that education remains a vital component of the Federal Government’s broader strategy to address insecurity by tackling its root causes and creating opportunities for young people.