By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd), says quality education, civic participation, and community cooperation with security agencies are critical to tackling banditry, terrorism, and other security challenges in Nigeria.
Musa spoke on Sunday at the commissioning of Kaduna Christian Academy in Ungwan Bulus, Sabon Tasha, Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State. The faith-based school was donated to the Kaduna Christian community by the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr. Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi, and his associates.
Describing the academy as a “strategic non-kinetic intervention,” the minister said lasting security depends on defeating ignorance and hopelessness through education and social development.
He commended the DSS for supporting community development in addition to its security responsibilities and urged residents to cooperate with security agencies by providing timely and credible information. Musa also called on parents to prioritise education, arguing that insecurity thrives where opportunities are lacking and that investment in schools can help prevent the recruitment of youths into criminal networks.
Speaking at the event, Rev. Joseph John Hayab, Chairman of the Northern Christian Association (NCA), described the academy as “a light intended to shine across generations” and said education is a right that should be available to every child regardless of background.
Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, represented by the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, commended the initiative and said the state government remains committed to expanding access to quality education.The governor’s representative said collaboration among government, communities, faith-based organisations, and private institutions is necessary to improve educational opportunities across the state.The ceremony was attended by religious leaders, community members, and representatives of various church denominations.
