President Bola Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, underscored his administration's commitment to bolstering Nigeria's security apparatus by scaling up the local production of arms and ammunition. Speaking at the graduation ceremony of Course 33 of the National Defence College (NDC) in Abuja, President Tinubu emphasized that boosting indigenous defence capacity is vital not only for reducing reliance on foreign suppliers but also for intensifying the nation's fight against insecurity. He lauded the NDC as a testament to his administration's dedication to developing human capital in critical areas of national survival.

The President particularly commended the NDC's tradition of research excellence, highlighting the "Presidential Treaties on Harnessing Indigenous Manufacturing for Enhanced National Security and Development: Strategic Options for Nigeria by 2040" as a prime example. He revealed that relevant stakeholders have been directed to study these recommendations and implement the proposed strategies, affirming that strengthening indigenous manufacturing is indispensable for Nigeria’s security and development.

Tinubu expressed delight at the theme of Course 33, "Strengthening Institutions for National Security and Development in Nigeria," recognizing that robust and resilient institutions form the bedrock of any successful society. He explained that strong institutions uphold the rule of law, protect citizens' rights, foster accountability, and deliver essential services. In the context of national security, they provide the framework for conflict management, threat counteraction, and resilience building. For development, they ensure sound governance, effective planning, and the successful delivery of policies for the common good. Thus, institutional strengthening remains a national priority for his administration.

Furthermore, President Tinubu articulated his firm conviction that "without strong institutions there can be no lasting democracy." In alignment with this belief, his administration has undertaken bold measures to reposition the nation's economy for growth and shared prosperity. He noted a renewed confidence in the Nigerian economy, reflected in a rising business outlook and a stock market that has grown by over forty-eight percent year-on-year, marking its best performance in almost three decades. While acknowledging this investor faith in reforms, the President stressed the ongoing need to tackle inflation and food insecurity to ensure economic growth translates into tangible prosperity for all Nigerians.

Regarding the National Defence College itself, Tinubu reiterated his administration’s resolve to complete the construction of its permanent site in Piwoyi. He acknowledged that while progress has been made, more work is required. He assured that the administration is committed to completing the site to ensure the College continues to provide strategic training for both Nigeria and allied nations. He envisioned the fully equipped College evolving into a Defence Postgraduate University and directed the Commandant to collaborate closely with the Minister of Defence to develop a clear strategy for upgrading facilities, while the government explores further interventions.

Addressing the Course 33 graduands, President Tinubu implored them to actively participate in delivering his administration’s "renewed hope" to Nigerians. He reminded them of his pledge to offer effective and creative leadership and called upon them to be partners in birthing the new Nigeria. He acknowledged the volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous global landscape they were entering, citing global economic headwinds, the war in Ukraine, emerging technologies, cyberspace threats, and the resurgence of unconstitutional changes of government in the region. Despite these challenges, he affirmed that they had been prepared, trained to think and act strategically, and equipped to lead with vision and courage.

Earlier in the ceremony, Rear Admiral J.O. Okosu, the Commandant of the National Defence College, welcomed the President, commending the administration's robust support for the military institution. He expressed confidence in the graduands' capabilities, emphasizing that the training program was designed to address pertinent security challenges, including banditry and oil theft in the Niger Delta. Deputy Commandant Major General Kevin Ukandu further elaborated that participants received knowledge and skills in diverse areas such as defense management, strategy formulation, command, and geopolitics. This comprehensive training aims to prepare them for high-level policy, command, and staff functions in various capacities, both nationally and internationally. The Course 33 graduates comprise personnel from the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, Nigeria Police Force, and other institutions within and outside Nigeria.