The Nigerian Defence Academy’s (NDA) graduating cadets have been given a mission by Air Marshal Hassan Bala Abubakar, the Chief of Air Staff, to be prepared to match the high standards of the Armed Forces of Nigeria by preparing to contribute to the solution of current security concerns.
Air Marshal Abubakar urged the cadets to be determined to make a difference, not only through bravery in battle but also by mastery of the tools and innovations that are reshaping modern warfare, according to a statement from Group Captain Kabiru Ali, Deputy Director, Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force.
In his speech as the Special Guest of Honor at the NDA 2024 Beating of the Retreat and Prize Giving Ceremony, Abubakar gave the cadets this charge.
In addition, the Chief of Air Staff emphasized to the 71 Regular Course and Direct Short Service Course graduates from 28 Army and 32 Air Force that a significant amount of money had been spent on developing their potential and forming their character development through superior military instruction and a strong academic foundation.
As a result, he urged the cadets to always put the country’s needs first and do everything in their power to defend its territorial integrity and safeguard its citizens.
Recall that the dreams and ambitions of our nation are dependent upon you as you get ready to be commissioned as officers. Thus, he said, it is now appropriate to consider what you can do for your country rather than what your country can do for you.
The NDA commandant and staff were praised by Air Marshal Abubakar for maintaining the age-old custom of the Beating of the Retreat, which marks the conclusion of the training year. He complimented the battalions and cadets who had won awards and urged them to keep aiming for greatness. In addition, he emphasized to the cadets the value of honesty, devotion, and bravery in their service to the country.
Earlier in the day, Air Marshal Abubakar gave strategic advice to guarantee high-quality and timely project outputs while inspecting ongoing infrastructure projects at the Nigerian Air Force’s NAF Base Kaduna. He also took a look at the recently refurbished NDA Air Force Wing facilities, praising the enhancements made to help with future officers’ training.
The NAF officers, airmen, and airwomen serving at NDA participated in a lively interactive session with the Chief of Air Staff when he was there. He congratulated them on their commitment to duty and asked them to uphold the NAF’s renowned high standards of professionalism and excellence.