Former Military President of Nigeria, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, has described the theme of this year’s study tour by participants of Senior Course 48 of the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, titled “Community Engagement for Enhanced National Security and Prosperity,” as timely, apt and highly relevant to Nigeria’s current security realities.
A statement signed by Abubakar Adamu Kuta Information Officer SSG’s Office, Niger State said General Babangida made this known when he received the delegation at his uphill residence in Minna, Niger State, noting that the theme reflects the urgent need for stronger collaboration between communities and security agencies in addressing contemporary security challenges.
It said the elder statesman, who hosted the delegation alongside former Sole Administrator of Osun State, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, emphasized the importance of study tours in enhancing the knowledge base and operational capacity of senior military officers, particularly in areas relating to national security and community engagement.
He commended the Armed Forces Command and Staff College for sustaining a culture of strategic learning and professional military development, urging participants to maximize the opportunity presented by the study tour.
In his remarks, the leader of the delegation, Air Commodore O.O. Obasa highlighted the enduring legacy of General Babangida, particularly his pivotal role in the establishment of the Armed Forces Command and Staff College. He recalled that the former Military President laid the foundation stone for the establishment of the Department of Air Warfare on July 3rd, 1986 and commissioned it on July 4, 1987, describing the initiative as a landmark contribution to military training and national development.
The visit was facilitated by the Niger State Government, with the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Abubakar Usman, leading the delegation of participants to the residence of the former Military President. The SSG was represented during the visit by the Director of Administration in his office, Alhaji Abdullahi Uregi.
The visit also formed part of activities lined up for the one-week study tour of the senior military officers to Niger State and further underscored the State Government’s commitment to strengthening civil-military relations, promoting national security and supporting strategic leadership development initiatives.
The highlight of the visit was the presentation of a College souvenir to General Babangida as a mark of honour and appreciation, as well as group photographs with members of the delegation.
