TINUBU CHARGES NDA GRADUATES TO UPHOLD CONSTITUTION, PROTECT CITIZENS

President Bola Tinubu told new military officers in Nigeria to follow the country‘s rules, look after its people, and keep the nation‘s money safe.
This message was given during a speech that was read by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr Tajudeen Abbas, who stood in for the president at the combined graduation event for the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) on Saturday in Kaduna.
The parade featured cadets of the 73 Regular Course (Army, Navy and Air Force), Short Service Course 49 (Army), Direct Short Service Course 34 (Air Force) and Branch Commission Course 3 (Air Force).
The President commended the Commandant of the NDA and his team for transforming the cadets into battle-ready, intellectually equipped and morally grounded leaders.
He said the Academy, established in 1964, had continued to evolve in response to emerging security threats by blending military training with academic education and character development.
Tinubu said the NDA had enhanced its counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency training while rapidly integrating technology into military training and research.
He noted that the Academy had strengthened partnerships with leading military institutions globally, with Nigerian cadets currently undergoing military training in the United Kingdom, United States, Brazil and France.
According to him, invitations extended to NDA cadets to participate in competitive military competitions in the U.S., Brazil and China demonstrate the growing recognition of the Academy’s training standards and professionalism.
He said the Academy had also continued to serve as a regional hub for military education by training cadets from several African countries, including Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Congo Brazzaville, Gambia, Guinea, Liberia, Niger, Sierra Leone and Uganda.
The President said the NDA had made significant progress in adapting to modern warfare through the expansion of classrooms, staff and cadets’ quarters, firing ranges and simulation centres.
When talking about national security, he said his government is still focused on making Nigeria safe, stable, and successful by using all available resources.
He explained that just using military force alone won’t solve the problem.
He mentioned that things like poverty, not having jobs, bad education, and broken communities are some of the main reasons for conflicts.
The President said his government is also working hard to create jobs, keep the economy steady, improve education, and support people‘s well–being, along with making the country safer.
He also reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to democracy, regional stability and economic integration through the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and other regional bodies.
Tinubu said Nigeria remained opposed to unconstitutional changes of government but would not abandon its neighbours in Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso.
Addressing the graduating cadets, the President urged them to remain disciplined, honourable, professional and committed to selfless service.
He said the cadets must be prepared to confront threats to Nigeria’s values and progress through violence and propaganda.
“Your duty is to uphold the Constitution, safeguard our economy and protect our people,” Tinubu said.
He also appreciated the families of the graduating officers for their emotional, moral and material support throughout their training, urging them to sustain their prayers and support.
The President commended the Commandant, staff and cadets for the successful parade and for maintaining high standards of military education and training.
“Congratulations, graduating cadets, and congratulations to the Nigerian Defence Academy. Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he said.
(NAN)
