Defence Minister tasks AFIT graduates on patriotism, innovation

The Honourable Minister of Defence, Christopher Gwabin Musa, has charged graduating students of the Air Force Institute of Technology to embrace patriotism, innovation, and excellence as they contribute to Nigeria’s development.

Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Mr Richard P. Pheelangwah, the minister gave the charge during the combined convocation ceremony of the institute held on March 28, 2026, in Kaduna.

Describing the occasion as a significant milestone, Musa noted that the graduates’ academic achievements come with a responsibility to support national growth and security. He revealed that a total of 3,003 students were awarded diplomas, degrees, and certificates, describing the figure as remarkable, especially as AFIT only attained degree-awarding status in the 2018/2019 academic session.

He emphasised that the graduates were leaving not just with academic qualifications but as custodians of national responsibility equipped to tackle contemporary challenges. According to him, nation-building requires integrity, accountability, and commitment, stressing that Nigeria’s progress depends on citizens willing to apply their knowledge with strong moral values.

The minister also highlighted the strategic role of AFIT as a centre of excellence in technological education and professional training, noting that its contributions are vital to strengthening national capacity in science, technology, and innovation. He urged the graduates to translate their knowledge into practical solutions that would drive development, adding 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, Sunday Kelvin Aneke, formally conferred degrees, diplomas, and certificates on the graduates.

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

Musa urged the graduates to uphold the values of their alma mater, reminding them that they remain ambassadors of AFIT’s reputation for discipline, innovation, and excellence. He also congratulated parents and guardians for their support, while encouraging the graduates to remain focused and dedicated to national service.

“Let your lives reflect discipline, your work reflect excellence, and your choices reflect patriotism,” he said, charging them to become a generation Nigeria will be proud of.