Abuja, Nigeria – The Honourable Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (Rtd.) OFR, today, Thursday, March 12, 2026, hosted the Honourable Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Kingsley Udeh, SAN, at Ship House, Abuja. The high-level meeting aimed at fostering a stronger partnership between various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to tackle national challenges.
Discussions during the visit primarily focused on enhancing collaboration between the defence sector and agencies under the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology. The goal is to drive innovation, research, and technological advancements that will bolster Nigeria’s security architecture.
General Musa underscored the critical importance of self-financing innovation and indigenous technological development. He stressed that Nigeria must prioritize local production and research to address national issues and reduce reliance on foreign technologies. A key area of concern highlighted by the Defence Minister was the energy sector, noting that “many military barracks across the country currently face significant electricity challenges.” He called for a robust partnership with agencies under the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, particularly the Energy Commission of Nigeria, to find sustainable energy solutions for military facilities. In his words, “stable energy supply is essential for operational efficiency, improved living conditions for personnel, and the effective functioning of military institutions.” He added that this collaboration would enable the Ministry of Defence to develop alternative and sustainable power solutions for barracks and other defence establishments.
General Musa reaffirmed the Ministry of Defence’s commitment to deepening collaboration with the science and technology community in areas such as research, innovation, capacity building, and energy development to strengthen national security and support the Armed Forces.
Earlier, Dr. Kingsley Udeh, SAN, accompanied by the Director-Generals of the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), Federal Institute of Industrial Research, Oshodi (FIIRO), and the Energy Commission of Nigeria, expressed his Ministry’s eagerness to partner with the Ministry of Defence. He highlighted their technological advancements in research, with each Director-General elaborating on potential contributions.
Both Ministers concurred that stronger institutional partnerships are vital to harnessing Nigeria’s scientific potential and translating research outcomes into practical solutions for national development and security.
The event was attended by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Directors from both Ministries, and other Principal Officers.
