The Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (retd.), has stressed that providing quality education is one of the best ways to fight terrorism and violent extremism in Nigeria. He described the country’s security problems as an “asymmetric war” where groups use radical ideas and false information to recruit young people. According to him, education helps to defeat ignorance and build stronger communities.

Gen. Musa made these remarks while inaugurating the Kaduna Christian Academy in Ungwan Sunday, Sabon Tasha, Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State. The school was built by the Department of State Services (DSS) in partnership with private organisations. He called the new school a “weapon of mass instruction” and a military asset without guns, showing how education can bring lasting peace.

The minister praised the DSS for going beyond normal security work to invest in education and community projects. He explained that a secure mind comes from learning and enlightenment, which is the strongest defence against those who spread chaos. He urged residents to take good care of the school and see it as their own inheritance for the future.

Gen. Musa also addressed students and parents at the event. He encouraged young learners to gain knowledge, values like tolerance, and critical thinking skills. To parents, he said the project shows the government cares about their children’s future. The academy is meant to serve the Christian community but also promotes peace between different faiths, similar to a previous school built for the Muslim community.

This initiative forms part of the government’s broader plan to link security efforts with social development, especially through education. By building schools in troubled areas, authorities hope to reduce radicalisation and give young people better opportunities. Many see this as a positive step towards addressing the root causes of insecurity in Nigeria.