President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on newly-commissioned officers of the Nigerian Armed Forces to prioritize the country's security and well-being. Speaking at the combined Passing Out Parade of cadets of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) in Kaduna, Tinubu emphasized the importance of upholding the Constitution, safeguarding the nation's economy, and protecting its citizens. He was represented by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr. Tajudeen Abbas.
The ceremony marked the graduation of 444 cadets of the 73 Regular Course, who completed five years of training, including four years of academic studies and one year of full military training. Tinubu commended the NDA for adapting its training curriculum to address contemporary security challenges, including counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency training, as well as integrating technology into military training and research.
Tinubu highlighted the innovations being developed through the NDA's Centre for Innovation and Creativity, such as precision-guided munitions, remotely operated weapon systems, and multipurpose mobile robots. He urged the Academy to sustain its momentum and deepen collaboration with military training institutions, defence industries, and academic institutions to enhance its capabilities.
The President emphasized that Nigeria's security challenges cannot be addressed solely through military operations, citing poverty, unemployment, poor education, and social disintegration as key drivers of conflict. He stated that his administration is combining security efforts with job creation, macroeconomic stability, human capital development, and social protection under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Tinubu also underscored the importance of regional security cooperation, noting that Nigeria will continue to pursue diplomacy, security cooperation, and economic integration through ECOWAS and other regional bodies. He reiterated Nigeria's opposition to unconstitutional changes of government and stressed that the country will not abandon its neighbours in Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso.
The President commended the NDA for its growing international engagements, including Nigerian cadets undergoing military training in the United Kingdom, United States, Brazil, and France. He noted that the Academy's participation in international military cadet competitions demonstrates its growing professional standing and Nigeria's contribution to defence education and capacity development on the continent.
Tinubu congratulated the graduating cadets and appreciated their families for their emotional, moral, and material support throughout their training. He urged the new officers to uphold discipline, honour, professionalism, and selfless service, stressing that their advancement in the Armed Forces would depend on the values acquired at the Academy.
Key points
- President Tinubu charges newly-commissioned NDA officers to prioritize Nigeria's security and well-being.
- The President commends the NDA for adapting its training curriculum to address contemporary security challenges.
- Tinubu emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to address Nigeria's security challenges, including poverty, unemployment, and social disintegration.
