By Mohammad Tijjani
The Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), on Thursday matriculated 550 cadets of the 77 regular Course.
Retired Lt.-Gen. Abdulsalam Ibrahim who was the Guest of Honour at the 14th NDA matriculation, said it represented a pinnacle of excellence, marrying military professionalism with academic dedication.
Ibrahim said, “It has been a vital institution for decades, shaping leaders who enhance our national security and partake in international peacekeeping operations.”
According to him, the matriculation ceremony symbolised the acceptance of a noble calling to serve Nigeria, uphold peace, and defend the sovereignty of the country.
He congratulated the cadets, saying, “You have embarked on a journey demanding your utmost dedication and resilience.
“The NDA is a beacon of national pride, where values are embodied, and leadership flourishes.
“You are now part of this esteemed tradition.
“As you step into this noble journey, keep in mind three guiding principles; discipline as the foundation of military professionalism, as such, nurture it and let it inform your actions.
” The second one is knowledge as today’s military needs innovative thinkers, so, expand your grasp of leadership, technology, geopolitics, and warfare.
“On adaptability, continuously analyse and adjust to intricate security challenges.”
According to Ibrahim, academic pursuits are as crucial as military training, shaping them into a well-rounded officer.
He urged, “Treat your studies as vital preparation for your future responsibilities.”
Ibrahim told the cadets to prepare for both challenges and victories, saying, “each lesson and lecture is crucial for a future where your decisions, character, and courage will impact lives.
“Maintain your integrity honour, honesty, humility, and respect define exceptional leaders.
“You are destined to become protectors of Nigeria’s peace and stability, and thorough preparation is imperative.”
He told them that their success required physical strength, mental toughness, academic excellence, moral integrity, leadership capacity, unwavering discipline and positive character .
Earlier, the Commandant, NDA, Maj.-Gen. Oluyemi Olatoye, congratulated the cadets for successfully navigating the competitive admission process.
He said, “Today marks the beginning of an important journey that will not only define your military career but also shape your character, discipline, and commitment to serve our beloved nation.
“By taking the oath of matriculation, you are committing to a path filled with academic rigour, demanding discipline, hard work, and integrity.
“Remember, successful completion of your academic program is essential for commissioning as officers in the Armed Forces of Nigeria and our Allied Countries.
“I urge you to take your studies seriously.”
According to him, for over six decades, the NDA had stood as a leading institution dedicated to producing officers who embody competence, character, and leadership, alongside mastery of modern warfare technology.
” You now become part of a distinguished tradition that integrates rigorous military training with robust academic education.
‘The academy will challenge your body, mind, and spirit not to break you but to instill the resilience expected of military officers”, Olatoye added.
He said the academic component of their training aligned with the NDA’s mission to equip each officer cadet with essential knowledge, skills, and values.
The commandant said the education aimed to produce well-rounded officers capable of effectively applying theory to real-life combat situations.
He charged them to always remember that their success at the NDA relied on their capacity to balance military training with academic pursuits.
” You are entering the military at a time when Nigeria faces multifaceted security challenges.
“These challenges necessitate officers who are intelligent, adaptable, and committed to the highest professional standards.
“By the end of your training, you will be looked upon by all represented nations for honorable service and the defense of our territorial integrity, ” Olatoye said .
He congratulated parents and guardians for entrusting their children to the academy.
” To the cadets; as you embark on this noble journey, remember you carry the hopes of your families, the trust of the Academy, and the expectations of Nigeria and its Allies, “Olatoye said.(NÀN)(www.nannews.ng)