Defence Minister Tasks Air Force Institute Graduates On Patriotism

The minister of Defence, Gen Christopher Musa (rtd), has charged the 3,003 graduates of the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) to embrace patriotism and innovation in service to the nation.

The minister gave the charge at the combined 2nd, 3rd and 4th convocation of the Air Force Institute of Technology, held yesterday in Kaduna.

He described the occasion as a defining moment, urging the graduands to view their certificates not just as academic achievements but as a call to responsibility.

Represented by the permanent secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Richard Pheelangwah, Gen Musa noted that Nigeria is at a critical juncture, facing complex security and technological challenges.

He emphasised that institutions like AFIT play a vital role in equipping the nation with the capacity to address these realities.

“Your knowledge must not remain theoretical; it must become transformational. Nation-building requires contributions from professionals across all sectors,” he said.

The minister further urged the graduates to embrace innovation, discipline, and excellence, adding that true patriotism is reflected in consistent actions and personal sacrifice, not mere words.

Earlier, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, declared the convocation open and formally conferred degrees, diplomas and certificates on the graduating students.

Earlier in his remarks, the Commandant of AFIT, Adeniran Ademuwagun, described the convocation as both an end and a beginning, marking the transition from structured learning to professional responsibility.

Ademuwagun urged the graduates to uphold the values of discipline, resilience, and integrity, emphasising that they are ambassadors of the institution and must sustain its reputation.

Delivering the valedictory speech on behalf of the graduands, Oluwole Winner Oluwatimilehin of the Department of Aerospace Engineering, who graduated with a cumulative grade point average of 4.99, called on his colleagues to remain focused, continually develop their skills and contribute meaningfully to national development.