The Honourable Minister of Defence, His Excellency Abubakar Badaru, has called on the graduates of the National Defence College (NDC) Course 32 to uphold and advance the principles of democracy as a crucial step towards achieving unity and development across Africa.
Speaking at the NDC Course 32 Graduation Lecture, themed “Democracy Beyond the Ballot Box: A Pathway to Africa’s Unity and Development,” the Minister emphasized that democracy extends beyond the electoral process and is essential in addressing the continent’s diverse challenges.
“Democracy in Africa holds great virtues that extend far beyond the mere act of voting in an election,” Minister Badaru stated. He underscored the significance of inclusive governance, where citizens play an active role in decision-making processes beyond elections.
“By emphasizing transparency and inclusivity, democracy can build trust in institutions and create a more cohesive society where shared goals and collective responsibility drive development,” he added.
Minister Badaru also praised the efforts of regional bodies such as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union (AU) in promoting democratic governance across the continent.
He noted that these institutions are vital in setting regional and continental standards, supporting member states in implementing democratic principles, and fostering collaboration on critical issues like trade, security, and climate change.
“This regional cohesion, driven by democratic values, can enhance collective problem-solving and drive development efforts more effectively,” he observed.
Addressing the graduating participants, the Minister urged them to apply the strategic knowledge they had gained to advance democracy and ensure a secure environment for development across Africa.
“Development can only thrive where there is security. You must leverage the knowledge you have acquired to provide an enabling security environment for the development that the African continent is yearning for,” he advised.
The event also featured the former President of Tanzania, His Excellency Dr. Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, as the guest speaker.
In his concluding remarks, Minister Badaru expressed hope that democracy would continue to serve as a catalyst for unity and development across Africa.
He stressed the need for collective efforts in building a strong and united continent. “Let us embrace democratic norms as a pathway to engendering Africa’s unity and development,” he implored.
The graduation ceremony marked the culmination of an intensive course designed to equip senior military officers and government officials with the strategic skills necessary for leadership in a complex global environment.
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