Newly commissioned cadets
President Bola Tinubu, on Saturday, commissioned 874 cadets into the Nigerian Armed Forces during a ceremony at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Kaduna.
Represented by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, the President officiated the commissioning of cadets from multiple courses, including the 72 Regular Course, Short Service Course 48 (Army), Direct Short Service Course 33 (Air Force), and Branch Commission Course 2 (Air Force).
Expressing his pride in the occasion, Tinubu acknowledged the NDA’s critical role in shaping “disciplined and battle-ready” leaders, and praised the academy for its consistent evolution in strengthening the operational readiness of the military.
He highlighted the NDA’s commitment to innovation, particularly through the integration of technology in training and research.
He commended the institution’s efforts in projects such as the development of precision-guided munitions and multi-purpose mobile robots, describing the work of academy researchers as “commendable contributions to our military capabilities.”
Addressing the newly commissioned officers, Tinubu stressed the importance of confronting the root causes of insecurity—including poverty, unemployment, poor education, and social fragmentation—through targeted national programs.
He reiterated his administration’s focus on job creation, macroeconomic reforms, and social protection under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
The President affirmed Nigeria’s continued leadership in continental and regional affairs, vowing to “strengthen partnerships for democracy, development, peace, and security.”
He also emphasized a diplomatic strategy centered on inclusivity and stability, particularly within the ECOWAS region. “We must rebuild trust and avoid actions that destabilize lives and economies,” he noted.
Speaking on internal threats, Tinubu called on the Armed Forces to “safeguard the economic lifeblood of our nation” against the activities of terrorists and insurgents. He also lauded the NDA’s overhaul of its training curriculum to meet the demands of modern warfare.
Encouraging the cadets to embody the academy’s values, he said: “Today, there is no better time to prove your valor and demonstrate the virtues upon which this academy was founded in the defense of our fatherland.”
He reminded them of their role as symbols of national unity and urged them to carry forward the spirit of cohesion developed during their training. “My administration has remained unrelenting in our resolve to provide a holistically safe society,” he said, calling on the officers to protect “the economic and core values of our nation.”
The President extended congratulations to the cadets and their families, acknowledging the sacrifices made throughout their training. “Without your support, it would have been more difficult for these cadets to cope fairly in adjusting to the rigors of this institution,” he said.
He urged continued emotional and moral support for the new officers, adding, “They deserve your prayers, they deserve your love, they deserve your emotional support to hold their heads high in the service of our great nation.”
In a special mention, Tinubu congratulated the Republic of Congo, which had a cadet among the graduates.
“Congratulations to the graduating cadets and congratulations to the Nigerian Defence Academy. Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he concluded.
NAN
