2024 a unique year of achievements for NDA – Commandant
By Mohammad Tijjani, Kaduna
The Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) says 2024 has been a unique year in so many ways as the institution bolstered efforts at producing well-trained leaders for the Nigerian Armed Forces.
According to the NDA Commandant, Major Gen. John Ochai, 2024 marks 60 years of NDA’s existence, and the year in which the academy passed out the largest number of officers.
Ochai, who spoke during the Nigerian Defence Academy Social Activities (NDASA) held at the academy’s headquarters at Afaka in Kaduna, added that in 2024, the academy had the largest number of officers trained outside the country.
He emphasised that the NDA would continue to train leaders not only for the Nigerian Armed Forces, but also other friendly nations.
“After five years of training, we imbibe in officers leadership qualities that are everlasting. The traditions, ethos, characters that we instill in our cadets follow them forever and become very useful in all spheres of human endeavors,” he added.
The Special Guest, Mr Martins Amaram, the Country Security Manager, Nigeria Breweries, said the academy’s social activities would foster unity, cultural awareness and comradeship among the cadets and the larger community.
Amaram said, “The academy has always been a beacon of excellence in producing military leaders for integrity, resilience and capacity to face security issues in a dynamic and complex world .
“Beyond academics and military training, the academy still values cultural respect and social engagement, recognising the diversity of our great country, Nigeria.”
He commended the NDA for creating the platform where cadets can appreciate the rich cultures of the country and build bonds that transcends borders.
Amaram observed that the military has been playing critical role in ensuring the stability and progress of Nigeria.
He therefore urged the academy not to relent in recording more successes in its mission of excellence and service to the nation.
Awards were presented to deserving soldiers who distinguished themselves in 2024.
Similarly, 22 soldiers were decorated with their new rank from Warrant Officers to Master Warrant Officers.
NAN
