By Chimezie Godfrey
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, has advocated a new era of strategic military evolution anchored on enhanced border security and indigenous defence production.
Oluyede made this known while giving directives and summing up discussions at the inaugural lecture of the Joint Doctrine and Warfare Centre (JDWC) on Tuesday, where he stressed that both elements are critical to Nigeria’s future defence projection.
According to him, the Armed Forces of Nigeria are deliberately pushing towards self-reliance and stronger regional collaboration to effectively combat multifaceted security threats.
The CDS revealed that the military is prioritising the strengthening of local defence production through the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria and other indigenous manufacturers.
He further acknowledged the importance of border security to internal stability, stressing the need to maintain cordial relations and cooperation with neighbouring countries.
Responding to various submissions by stakeholders at the lecture, Oluyede reiterated the importance of synergy and joint military operations.
“Single service efforts will not always bring out the desired operational outcomes,” he said, noting that jointness remains imperative for achieving optimal results.
He supported this position with examples demonstrating the need for the Services to work together, leveraging their unique competencies.
The CDS also disclosed that outcomes of the lecture would be presented to the Federal Executive Council (FEC) and the Nigeria Governors’ Forum for broader stakeholder buy-in.
The Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), who was the Special Guest of Honour, echoed the call for synergy.
He described Nigeria’s security strategy as a “whole-of-society and whole-of-government approach.”
Musa noted that the JDWC, established in July 2025, serves as an intellectual hub where different branches of the military learn to leverage one another’s strengths.
He added that true operational superiority is achieved when land, maritime and air forces operate as a unified entity, supported by citizens.
Earlier, the Director General of the JDWC, Maj.-Gen. A.E. Edet, highlighted progress made since the Centre’s establishment six months ago.
Edet said the Centre has moved swiftly with roadmaps and plans for full operationalisation, pledging that it would remain “relentlessly focused” on advancing technology and innovation for national security.
The event marked a significant milestone in institutionalising joint military thinking and strengthening national defence coordination.
It also attracted top military officials, including former Chiefs of Defence Staff led by Alani Akinrinade, Service Chiefs, senior officers, members of the diplomatic community, and heads of security agencies.