Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa, has said education remains the strongest tool for tackling insecurity in Nigeria.
Musa stated this yesterday at the inauguration of the Kaduna Christian Academy in Ungwan Bulus, Sabon Tasha, Kaduna State, a project sponsored by the director-general (DG) of the Department of State Services (DSS), Oluwatosin Ajayi.
He said sustainable security cannot be achieved through military force alone, but through deliberate investment in education, youth development and social inclusion, stressing that defeating ignorance and hopelessness is central to building lasting peace.
According to him, communities become vulnerable to crime and extremism where ignorance, unemployment and hopelessness are allowed to thrive.
“True and lasting security is anchored in the defeat of ignorance and the conquest of hopelessness,” the minister said.
Musa described the academy as a strategic national asset, adding that education plays a critical role in strengthening internal security and reducing exposure to extremist propaganda.
He also commended the DSS leadership for supporting education and community development initiatives, noting that such interventions complement government efforts in addressing insecurity.
The Kaduna State governor, Uba Sani, represented by Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Sir James Kanyip described the project as a significant boost to the state’s education sector.
He said education remains a key priority of the present administration, adding that government is committed to expanding access to quality and inclusive learning opportunities across Kaduna State.
The governor noted that education is essential for human capital development and long-term stability, stressing the need for collaboration among government, communities, and private stakeholders in strengthening the sector.
He commended the initiators of the project, saying it would help in shaping the lives of young people and contribute to social development in the area.
Earlier in his welcome address, the chairman of the Northern Christian Association (NCA), Joseph John Hayab, praised the DSS Director-General for sponsoring the project, describing it as a transformative intervention for community development.
Hayab said the academy reflects a commitment to investing in the future of children and expanding access to quality education in underserved communities.
He added that education remains a powerful tool for peacebuilding and social transformation, urging residents to take ownership of the facility and protect it for future generations.
