Defence minister Christopher Musa has charged graduates of the National Defence College Course-34 to translate their training into policies that drive industrialisation, inclusive growth and regional stability across Africa.

Mr Musa gave the charge on Monday in Abuja, at the graduation lecture of NDC Course-34.

He congratulated the commandant, faculty, staff and the graduating participants for completing what he described as a rigorous programme that prepared leaders for higher responsibilities in national security, governance and strategic leadership.

He also commended the guest lecturer, former President Goodluck Jonathan, for his lecture titled ‘Harnessing Industrial Capacity for Inclusive Growth and Regional Stability in Africa’. According to him, industrial capacity is no longer just an economic goal but a strategic imperative for national security.

“A resilient industrial base strengthens economic competitiveness, creates productive employment, enhances national resilience and contributes significantly to regional peace and security,” he said.

He noted that Mr Jonathan’s emphasis on transforming Africa’s abundant natural and human resources into value-added production, technological innovation and sustainable prosperity was timely and critical for the continent’s future.

“Lasting peace cannot be sustained without inclusive economic growth, just as sustainable development cannot flourish in an environment of insecurity,” he said.

The minister added that building resilient institutions, investing in infrastructure, technology and human capital, and strengthening regional cooperation remained indispensable to securing Africa’s future.

He urged African nations to deepen collaboration through initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area to promote industrialisation and shared prosperity.

Speaking directly to the course-34 participants, Mr Musa said they were returning to their services and MDAs at a time when strategic leadership was more critical than ever.

“The knowledge and networks you have acquired here must now translate into sound policy, innovative thinking and effective leadership.

“I encourage you to champion integrated approaches that strengthen national resilience, promote economic development and enhance peace and security, not only within your respective countries but across the African continent,” he said.

Mr Musa further commended the college for its continued contribution to national capacity building and strategic leadership development.

The event had in attendance top military officers, government officials, diplomats and members of the course-34.

(NAN)