Subscribe: Gist E-Paper
The Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (retd.), has inaugurated the Kaduna Christian Academy in Ungwan Bulus, Sabon Tasha, Kaduna State, describing education as a powerful tool for tackling insecurity and fostering lasting peace.
Speaking during the inauguration on Sunday, Musa said the academy, built with the support of the Department of State Services (DSS), represents a strategic investment in human capital development and community empowerment.
According to him, the institution will not only provide quality education but also contribute to building resilient communities and promoting sustainable development.
The Defence Minister described the school as a “weapon of mass instruction,” capable of combating ignorance, hopelessness and other factors that often fuel insecurity and social unrest.
He stressed that while national security is often associated with military strength and intelligence operations, lasting peace can only be achieved through education and opportunity.
“An educated and enlightened population remains the strongest defence against insecurity, extremism and social instability,” Musa said.
He commended the Director-General of the DSS, Adeola Ajayi, and the agency for extending their role beyond traditional security operations to initiatives that directly impact communities.
According to him, security is not limited to surveillance and law enforcement but also involves winning public trust through meaningful social interventions.
Musa urged residents to take ownership of the facility and safeguard it against vandalism, noting that the success of the project would depend on the quality of education and values imparted to students.
Representing Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State, the Commissioner for Justice, Dr. James Kanyip, described the academy as a symbol of hope, progress and transformation.
The governor said the institution would make a significant contribution to educational development in the state and complement government efforts to expand access to quality learning opportunities.
He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to ensuring that every child has access to affordable, equitable and quality education.
Kanyip stressed that sustainable progress in the education sector requires collaboration among government, communities, faith-based organisations and private stakeholders.
He also commended the academy’s management and supporters for their commitment to developing future leaders through education.
Earlier, the Director-General of the DSS, Adeola Ajayi, represented by Malam Musa Suleiman, said education remains one of the most effective instruments for addressing insecurity and promoting national development.
Ajayi noted that community development, youth empowerment and capacity building are critical components of sustainable peace and social stability.
He said the project reflects the DSS leadership’s belief that security can be strengthened through investments in education and opportunities for young people.
In his welcome address, Chairman of the Northern Christian Association, Rev. Joseph Hayab, described the academy as the realisation of a long-standing vision aimed at expanding access to education in underserved communities.
Hayab expressed gratitude to the DSS leadership and other stakeholders whose support made the project possible.
He urged residents of Ungwan Bulus and Sabon Tasha to protect the institution and ensure it remains a centre for learning, discipline and character development.
The cleric also encouraged Nigerians to support similar educational initiatives, describing education as one of the most enduring investments in peace, progress and national transformation.
The inauguration attracted government officials, security chiefs, religious leaders, traditional rulers and members of the host communities.
The event also highlighted the DSS’s growing involvement in educational and social development projects across the country.
A similar school project was donated in 2025 to the predominantly Muslim community of Dan Bushiya in Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State, reflecting the agency’s commitment to promoting education, social cohesion and interfaith harmony.
