The Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), on Monday, launched the 60th anniversary emblem, crest, and presentation of the 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 the NDA.
NAN also reports that the academy was established on February 5, 1964, and it is celebrating its diamond jubilee.
Aliyu said that the NDA had played a pivotal role in shaping Nigeria’s engagement at sub-regional, regional, and global levels due to Nigeria’s commitment to peace and security.
He said that over the past 60 years, the academy has served as a centre of excellence in training and commissioning 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, enhancing quality training, and integrating sound leadership.
Aliyu also advised cadets to be committed, dedicated, and determined to tackle the volatile, uncertain, and ambiguous security environment.
Earlier, the Commandant of academy, Maj.-Gen. John Ochai, said that over the years, it has continued to provide officer cadets with the 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 the 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 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 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 the NDA’s crest and emblem and presentation of a long service award to some members of staff.
Source: NAN