Defence Minister Tasks AFIT Graduates On Patriotism, Innovation

The Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd), has urged graduating students of the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), Kaduna, to embrace patriotism, innovation and excellence in contributing to Nigeria’s development.

 

Speaking at the institute’s combined convocation ceremony held on Saturday in Kaduna, the minister represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Mr Richard Pheelangwah said the graduates must see their academic achievements as a call to national service.

 

He described the ceremony as a significant milestone, disclosing that no fewer than 3,003 students were awarded diplomas, degrees and certificates.

 

He noted that the figure underscores AFIT’s rapid growth, particularly as it only attained degree-awarding status in the 2018/2019 academic session.

 

According to him, the graduates are leaving not just with academic qualifications but as individuals equipped to address Nigeria’s contemporary challenges.

“Nation-building demands integrity, accountability and commitment. Nigeria’s progress depends on citizens who are ready to apply their knowledge with strong moral values,” he said.

 

The minister highlighted AFIT’s strategic role in national development, describing the institution as a centre of excellence in technological education and professional training.

 

He added that its graduates remain critical to strengthening the country’s capacity in science, technology and innovation.

 

He further urged the graduands to translate their knowledge into practical solutions that would drive development, stressing that true patriotism is demonstrated through discipline, excellence and selfless service.

 

In his capacity as Chairman of the AFIT Governing Council, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, formally conferred degrees, diplomas and certificates on the 3,003 graduates.

 

Earlier, the Commandant of AFIT, Air Vice Marshal A.K. Ademuwagun, commended the Nigerian Air Force and other stakeholders for their sustained support, reaffirming the institute’s commitment to producing skilled and disciplined manpower.

 

The defence minister also charged the graduates to uphold the values of the institution and serve as worthy ambassadors of AFIT wherever they find themselves.

 

He commended the leadership and staff of the institute for their role in training competent professionals, noting that their contributions are vital to Nigeria’s technological advancement and security development.

 

He also congratulated parents and guardians for their support.

Musa urged the graduates to remain focused and committed to national service.

“Let your lives reflect discipline, your work reflect excellence, and your choices reflect patriotism,” he said.