Nation-Building Demands Integrity, Accountability, Commitment, Says Defence Minister Musa
30 March, 2026| News
Musa Calls for Integrity as Outrage Trails ‘Prodigal Son’ Remark on Terrorists
Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, has emphasised the need for integrity, accountability, and collective responsibility in nation-building, amid growing criticism over controversial remarks comparing terrorists to the biblical “prodigal son.”
Speaking at the Combined Convocation Ceremony of the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) in Kaduna, the minister said national stability and sustainable development depend on citizens upholding ethical standards, supporting government efforts, and promoting unity.
Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Richard Pheelangwah, Musa urged graduating students to embrace patriotism, innovation, and excellence as they contribute to national development. He noted that their academic achievements come with a responsibility to support the country’s growth and security.
A total of 3,003 students received diplomas, degrees, and certificates at the ceremony, which the minister described as a significant milestone for the institution, particularly since it attained degree-awarding status in the 2018/2019 academic session.
He stressed that the graduates are not only leaving with academic qualifications but also as custodians of national responsibility, equipped to tackle contemporary challenges with integrity and strong moral values.
Meanwhile, controversy has continued to trail recent comments by the Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, who likened terrorists to the “prodigal son” and suggested they deserved rehabilitation. The remarks have sparked outrage among victims’ families and security stakeholders.
A former Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Dewan Gabriel, condemned the statement, describing it as insensitive and disrespectful to families who have lost loved ones to terrorism.
He argued that such comments downplay the severity of violence across the country and risk undermining public trust and national morale. According to him, terrorists should not be viewed as misunderstood individuals but as actors responsible for grave harm against citizens and the state.
Gabriel added that the remarks could weaken the fight against insecurity and diminish the sacrifices of security personnel who continue to risk their lives in the line of duty.
In a separate development, Oluyede also stressed the importance of physical, mental, and emotional fitness among military personnel, noting that resilience and discipline are essential in tackling Nigeria’s complex security challenges.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the 2026 Armed Forces Inter-Service Archery Competition, he said such activities help build precision, focus, and teamwork, which are critical to effective military operations.
He maintained that maintaining overall fitness is vital to ensuring operational readiness and improving service delivery in the face of ongoing security threats.