President Bola Tinubu has urged newly commissioned military officers to make constitutional responsibility, discipline, and selfless service the foundation of their careers in the Nigerian Armed Forces. Tinubu, who serves as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, gave the charge on Saturday at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Kaduna. The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr. Tajudeen Abbas, represented Tinubu at the Combined Passing Out Parade.
The ceremony witnessed the commissioning of cadets from the 73 Regular Course, Short Service Course 49 of the Nigerian Army, Direct Short Service Course 34 of the Nigerian Air Force, and Branch Commission Course 3 of the Nigerian Air Force. Addressing the officers, Tinubu said their training at the Academy had equipped them for the demands and responsibilities of military service. He told the newly commissioned officers to uphold discipline, professionalism, courage, and integrity in the performance of their duties.
Tinubu praised the NDA for continually reviewing its training programs to prepare cadets for the changing nature of warfare and contemporary security challenges. According to him, the Academy's growing emphasis on counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations, technological innovation, and international partnerships has strengthened its capacity to produce officers capable of operating in a complex security environment.
The President urged the NDA to maintain its pursuit of excellence and continue developing officers who can effectively respond to emerging threats facing the country. He reminded the officers that their commissioning marked the beginning of a new responsibility to the nation, requiring them to demonstrate courage, integrity, and dedication in their service.
The event was attended by the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke; the Minister of Defence; the Minister of State for Defence; the Chief of Defence Staff; other Service Chiefs; and senior government and military officials. Presidents and Coordinators of various Officers' Wives Associations were also present at the ceremony.
Tinubu charged the officers to protect the Nigerian people and defend the Constitution, while adhering to the professional standards and traditions of the Armed Forces. The newly commissioned officers are expected to begin their careers by upholding the traditions of the Nigerian Armed Forces and putting their training into practice in the service of the country.
The President further emphasized that the nation is counting on the newly commissioned officers, urging them to make a positive impact in their service. With their commissioning, the officers are now expected to take on new responsibilities and contribute to the security and well-being of the nation.
Key points
- President Bola Tinubu urges newly commissioned military officers to uphold discipline and professionalism in the Nigerian Armed Forces.
- The Nigerian Defence Academy has been praised for its emphasis on counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations.
- The newly commissioned officers are expected to begin their careers by upholding the traditions of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
