By:Onifade Samuel
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has charged newly commissioned officers of the Nigerian Armed Forces to uphold the Constitution, protect Nigerians and safeguard the country’s national interests as they begin their military careers.
Tinubu gave the charge on Saturday during the combined Passing Out Parade of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) in Kaduna State. The President was represented at the ceremony by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr Tajudeen Abbas, who delivered his address on his behalf.
The ceremony marked the commissioning of cadets from the 73 Regular Course of the Army, Navy and Air Force, alongside personnel from 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 newly commissioned officers, Tinubu urged them to demonstrate discipline, honour, professionalism, integrity and courage in the discharge of their responsibilities.
He reminded them that their primary duty was to uphold the Constitution, protect the people and safeguard the nation’s economy.
The President also commended the NDA for continually adapting its training programmes to meet emerging security challenges. He highlighted the Academy’s increased focus on counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations, technological innovation and military research.
According to Tinubu, the NDA has also expanded its international partnerships, with Nigerian cadets undergoing military training in countries including the United Kingdom, United States, Brazil and France. The Academy also continues to train cadets from other African countries.
He further pointed to developments at the Academy’s Centre for Innovation and Creativity, including work involving precision-guided munitions, remotely operated weapon systems and multipurpose mobile robots.
On Nigeria’s security challenges, Tinubu said military operations alone could not address insecurity, identifying poverty, unemployment, inadequate education and social disintegration as factors that could contribute to conflict.
He said his administration was therefore combining security measures with efforts focused on job creation, economic stability, human capital development and social protection.
The President urged the new officers to remain committed to the values acquired during their training and to approach their duties with a strong sense of responsibility and selfless service.
He also appreciated the families of the graduating officers for their support throughout the cadets’ training and congratulated the newly commissioned officers on completing their programme.
The commissioning marks the beginning of a new phase of service for the officers as they join the Nigerian Armed Forces and assume responsibilities in defending the country and protecting its citizens.
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