The Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), on Monday, unveiled the emblem and crest commemorating its 60th anniversary, alongside honoring its staff members with long service awards.
During his speech, retired Maj.-Gen. Rabiu Aliyu urged the academy to enhance its curriculum so that cadets would be equipped to handle today’s security problems.
According to reports, Aliyu was both the NDA’s first cadet and the Special Guest of Honour.
The institution is commemorating its diamond jubilee, having been founded on February 5, 1964.
Because of Nigeria’s dedication to peace and security, according to Aliyu, the NDA has been crucial in forming Nigeria’s engagement at the sub-regional, regional, and international levels.
The academy, according to him, has been a center of excellence for training and commissioning the greatest officers for the Nigerian Armed Forces and other friendly nations for the previous 60 years.
Nonetheless, he urged the NDA to carry on its excellent efforts of advancing professionalism, improving the caliber of training, and incorporating strong leadership.
Additionally, Aliyu counseled trainees to face the unstable, unclear, and contradictory security situation with dedication, commitment, and determination.
Prior to this, Maj.-Gen. John Ochai, the academy’s commandant, stated that the institution had consistently given officer cadets the values and abilities required to fulfill the demands of a military officer through instruction and character.
He claims that the institution is unwavering in its dedication to quality, creativity, and the formation of leaders who will serve with dignity and merit.
“The crest and emblem will serve as a constant reminder of the great strides the academy have made as a stakeholder in Nigeria’s defence architecture.
“Therefore, the diamond jubilee anniversary is an avenue to celebrate the achievements of the academy, honour its legacies, and reaffirm its pivotal role in safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty,” Ochai said.
He praised the bravery and vision of the academy’s founders and previous administrators for raising it to this point.
According to reports, some employees received awards for their lengthy service, and the NDA’s crest and emblem were unveiled.