The Honourable Minister of Defence, Mohammed Abubakar Badaru, CON, mni, today declared open the 2025 edition of the Defence Training Conference with a clarion call for a modern, mission-focused, and technologically empowered Nigerian Armed Forces.
Addressing military leaders, policymakers, defence experts, and global partners at the Armed Forces Officers’ Mess, Asokoro, Abuja, the Minister underscored the urgent need for a strategic shift in military training to meet the complex, fast-evolving nature of Nigeria’s security threats.
“We are no longer fighting yesterday’s wars. The threats before us are asymmetric, borderless, and technology-driven. Our training must reflect this new reality,” the Minister stated.
With the conference themed “Performance-Oriented Training and Trends in the Contemporary Operating Environment,” the Minister laid out the Ministry’s strategic vision, highlighting priorities such as: Modernizing training infrastructure and doctrine, Integrating cyber and space capabilities, Expanding joint inter-agency and multinational exercises, and Strengthening partnerships with global defence institutions.
Personal Assistant on Media & Publicity to the minister, Mati Ali in a statement quoted him to have reaffirmed the Federal Government’s dedication to enhancing the human element of national defence through investments in leadership development, personnel welfare, and mental resilience.
The Minister also urged participants to explore critical innovations like simulation-based training, modular systems, and stronger civil-military cooperation to support broader national development goals.
Commending the Defence Headquarters for organizing the conference, he praised the Armed Forces for their professionalism, sacrifice, and unwavering service to the nation.
“This conference must not end as a dialogue. It must deliver measurable actions that sharpen our operational readiness both at home and on international missions,” the Minister concluded.
The 2025 Defence Training Conference marks a defining moment in Nigeria’s quest to build a forward-looking, adaptable, and strategically aligned military force for the 21st century.
