By Harriet Tornguvan
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, has called on the graduating cadets of the Nigerian Defence Academy NDA to apply the lessons learned during their training as they step into military service.
Speaking as the Special Guest of Honour at the Regimental Dinner Night held in honor of the Passing Out Cadets from the 71st Regular Course, Direct Short Service Course DSSC 28 Army, and DSSC 32 Air Force, General Musa emphasized the importance of discipline and readiness for the evolving challenges they will face in their careers.
The Regimental Dinner Night, a long-standing military tradition, serves as an essential occasion that familiarizes the cadets with the conduct expected during formal military events in the Nigerian Armed Forces.
General Musa highlighted that the dinner provides a rare opportunity for cadets to engage with senior and retired military officers in a more relaxed setting, allowing them to learn valuable military etiquette and qualities expected of an officer.
The CDS stressed the significance of discipline, integrity, and strong regimental attitudes, which he described as critical qualities for success in the Armed Forces.
He urged the cadets to ensure that they not only acquire knowledge from their time at the Academy but also cultivate a character built on these core values.
General Musa also challenged them to embody these principles as they transition into leadership roles within the military.
He also spoke on the comprehensive training the cadets had received, noting that it was designed to equip them with the leadership skills needed to face the current security challenges in the country.
General Musa emphasized that the cadets must be prepared to lead with courage and responsibility, playing their part in restoring Nigeria’s pride, particularly in the area of security.
The CDS reminded the cadets that they must be ready to rise above future challenges and lead effectively in operational environments. He encouraged them to remain honest, loyal, and brave, always leading with integrity. General Musa urged the graduating cadets to stay disciplined and law-abiding, reinforcing their commitment to being exemplary officers.
General Musa expressed his gratitude to the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his continued support of the Nigerian military, adding that the event should inspire the cadets to embrace the profession of arms with renewed dedication.
