The Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s strong commitment to education, describing it as the most powerful foundation for building a united, disciplined and progressive nation.
General Musa made the declaration during a courtesy visit by the National Parents Teachers Association of Nigeria (NAPTAN) on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at the Ministry of Defence headquarters, Ship House, Abuja, where the association honoured him with an Award of Excellence.
Speaking at the event, the Defence Minister emphasized that sustainable national development can only be achieved through quality education that shapes character, discipline and responsible citizenship. He noted that education goes beyond classroom instruction and requires close collaboration among schools, parents and communities.
According to a statement by the Deputy Director, Information and Public Relations, Enderline Chukwu, the Minister said, parents and teachers remain the twin pillars of a child’s development, jointly shaping values, character and future potential. He urged parents to take greater responsibility in guiding and mentoring their children, stressing that moral values and sound upbringing are critical to producing citizens who will contribute positively to society.
The Minister further highlighted the role of the Parents Teachers Association (PTA) as a key component of the School-Based Management Committee (SBMC), acknowledging its consistent and impactful contributions to school development and effective governance. He said significant investments have been made through collective efforts to advance education across the country.
Earlier, the leader of the NAPTAN delegation and National President of the association, Alhaji Haruna Danjuma, expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for providing the enabling environment for the Defence Minister to excel. He described General Musa’s appointment as divinely inspired and timely, noting that the Minister possesses the capacity and experience to address Nigeria’s security challenges.
Danjuma said the Award of Excellence was in recognition of the Minister’s strategic leadership, dedication to institutional development and unwavering support for initiatives that enhance national security and defence capacity. He added that under General Musa’s leadership, the Ministry of Defence has continued to advance policies and reforms that strengthen the nation’s security architecture while promoting sustainable national development.
The high point of the visit was the formal presentation of the Award of Excellence to the Honourable Minister by the National President of NAPTAN.
In his vote of thanks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Mr. Richard Pheelangwah, congratulated the Minister on the well-deserved honour, commending his tireless efforts toward ensuring peace, security and the protection of future generations.
He also lauded NAPTAN for its partnership with the Ministry of Defence in nurturing discipline, patriotism and civic responsibility among Nigerian youths, noting that such collaboration is laying the foundation for a stronger, safer and more united nation.
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