Jonathan, COAS Shaibu, CDS Musa Discuss Economy-Security Nexus at NDC Lecture

The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Monday, August 24, 2026, joined former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd), and the Chief of Defence Staff at the National Defence College, NDC, Course 34 Graduation Lecture in Abuja.*

The event, held at Abacha Hall in the NDC, had the theme “Harnessing Industrial Capacity for Inclusive Growth and Regional Stability in Africa.” It brought together senior leaders in Nigeria’s defence and security architecture to discuss the link between industrial development, economic resilience and sustainable security.

Former President Jonathan delivered the lecture. The session also had in attendance the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Director General of the Department of State Services, Service Chiefs, the Inspector General of Police and heads of other security agencies.

Speakers stressed the need for African countries to strengthen indigenous production, deepen technological advancement, reduce external dependencies and create economic opportunities to address some of the root causes of instability.

The discourse highlighted the growing connection between industrial capacity, economic security and national defence, against the backdrop of evolving security challenges across the continent.

The participation of the COAS and other top security leaders reinforced the call for a whole-of-government approach to national security. They noted that sustainable peace is shaped not only by military capability, but also by economic strength, industrial growth, technology and effective governance.

The graduation lecture was part of activities marking the completion of NDC Course 34. The College said the programme is designed to equip senior military, security and civilian leaders with strategic knowledge and critical thinking to address complex national, regional and global security issues.