The Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), on Monday launched the 60th anniversary emblem, crest and presentation of long service award to its members of staff.
Retired Maj.-Gen. Rabiu Aliyu, in his address urged the academy to improve its training curriculum to prepare cadets to surmount contemporary security challenges.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Aliyu was the Special Guest of Honour and also one of the pioneer cadets of NDA.
NAN also report that the academy was established on Feb. 5, 1964, and it is celebrating its diamond Jubilee.
Aliyu said that the NDA had played pivotal roles in shaping Nigeria’s engagement at sub-regional, regional and global levels due to Nigeria’s commitment to peace and security.
He said over the past 60 years, the academy had served as a centre of excellence in training and commissioning of the best officers for the Nigerian Armed Forces and other friendly countries.
He, however, encouraged the NDA to continue with the good work of promoting professionalism, enhanced quality training and integrating sound leadership.
Aliyu also advised cadets to be committed, dedicated and determined to tackling the volatile, uncertain and ambiguous security environment.
Earlier, the Commandant of academy, Maj.-Gen. John Ochai, said over the years, it has continued to provide officer cadets with skills and values necessary to meet the requirements of a military officer through training and character.
According to him, the academy remains steadfast in its commitment to excellence, innovation and development of leaders who will serve with distinction and merit.
“The crest and emblem will serve as a constant reminder of the great strides the academy have made as 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 re-affirm its pivotal role in safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty,” Ochai said.
He saluted the courage and foresight of the institution’s founding fathers and past leaders for nurturing the academy to its present level.
NAN reports that the event witnessed the unveiling of NDA’s crest and emblem and presentation of long service award to some members of staff.(NAN)
By Mohammed Tijjani
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