Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd) on Saturday challenged graduating students of the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), Kaduna to embrace patriotism, innovation and excellence as they contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s development.
General Musa, represented during the institute’s 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Combined Convocation Ceremony for the award of degrees, Diploma and presentation of special prizes by Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Mr Richard P Pheelangwah, told the graduating students, faculty, and distinguished guests that their academic achievements comes with a responsibility to contribute to national growth and security.
Highlighting the scale of the ceremony, the Minister disclosed that with a total of 3,003 graduating students, particularly as AFIT only became a degree-awarding institution in the 2018/2019 academic session.
Emphasizing the vital role of education and technological innovation in shaping the future of Nigeria’s defence and security sectors, he commended the graduates for their hard work, urging them to uphold the values of discipline, professionalism, and dedication as they transit into their professional careers.
“The future of our nation’s technological advancement lies in your hands, your knowledge and skills are vital to the security and progress of our country.”said General Musa.
He noted that nation-building requires integrity, accountability, and commitment from all citizens, adding that Nigeria’s progress depends on individuals willing to apply their expertise with strong moral values.
The Minister also underscored the critical role of AFIT in national development, describing the institution as a centre of excellence in technological education and professional training.
According to him, the Institute continues to produce highly skilled professionals whose expertise remains vital to strengthening national capacity in science, technology, and innovation.
He urged the graduates to translate their academic knowledge into practical solutions that would drive national development, noting that true patriotism is best demonstrated through discipline, excellence, and selfless service.
Gen. Musa further encouraged the graduates to uphold the values of their alma mater, reminding them that wherever they find themselves, they would be seen as ambassadors of AFIT’s reputation for discipline, innovation, and excellence.
The Defence Minister also commended the leadership, management, and staff of the Institute for their commitment to training competent professionals, describing their efforts as essential to Nigeria’s technological advancement and security development. He equally congratulated parents and guardians for their sacrifices and unwavering support.
He also challenged the graduates to remain focused, uphold the values that shaped their journey, and dedicate themselves to national service. “Let your lives reflect discipline, your work reflect excellence, and your choices reflect patriotism,” he stated, urging them to become a generation that Nigeria would remember with pride.
In his role as the Chairman of the AFIT Governing Council, Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, formally conferred degrees, diplomas, and certificates on the 3,003 graduating students, marking the highlight of the ceremony.
Earlier, the Commandant of AFIT, Air Vice Marshal Adeniran Ademuwagun, appreciated the continued support of the Nigerian Air Force and other stakeholders while reaffirming the Institute’s commitment to producing highly skilled and disciplined manpower for national development.
The Commandant also extended his best wishes to the graduates as they embark on a new chapter in their career, with the hope that they will continue to serve with integrity and dedication to the nation.
Securing Nigeria For The Elections, Daily Trust Editorial of Tuesday January 31, 2023