Nigeria’s Defence Minister addresses global security at Schuman Forum

…Lists achievements under President Tinubu

By Innocent Raphael

The Honourable Minister of Defence, Muhammed Badaru Abubakar, is currently attending the Schuman Security & Defence Forum in Brussels, Belgium.

The Forum, which commenced on Wednesday, saw Badaru deliver a keynote presentation on Nigeria’s security situation and the country’s strategic approach to addressing contemporary security challenges.

Speaking at the occasion, the minister attributed the successes in the fight against insurgency and terrorism to the defence and security architectures implemented by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, since the inception of his administration.

He highlighted several key initiatives by the President, including the strengthening of regional and international security partnerships; the signing of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) Bill, 2023, to enhance local defence production and reduce reliance on foreign arms imports; and the launch of the Nigerian Navy’s new warship, NNS Gusau, to bolster maritime security and protect the nation’s territorial waters.

Other initiatives include, the approval of a comprehensive national security strategy to address emerging security threats and challenges; increased military funding to improve personnel welfare, training, and equipment,and the introduction of a new counter-terrorism policy to combat Boko Haram and other terrorist groups.

Badaru stated that the critical dialogues at the Forum aim to enhance international security cooperation and address contemporary defence challenges. He emphasized that the Forum provides a vital platform for Nigeria to engage with global partners and reinforce its commitment to regional and international peace and stability.

The Schuman Security & Defence Forum brings together EU Ministers of Defence, representatives from partner countries, international and regional organisations, think tanks, and academia to exchange views on common security challenges and responses.

This is the second edition of the Schuman Security and Defence Forum, following the success of the first edition last year.

The Forum is being held at a time of heightened security concerns in Europe and globally and is seen as an important opportunity for countries to come together and address common security challenges.