NDA welcomes 523 cadets into 76th regular course

The Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), on Monday, has welcomed 523 cadets into its 76th regular course during a matriculation ceremony held in Kaduna.

According to research by the Diaspora Digital Media (DDM), the event marked the 13th matriculation for the institution.

It also included an oath-taking ceremony, which symbolized the cadets’ formal entry into their academic programs.

As reported, the Commandant of the NDA, Maj.-Gen. John Ochai, addressed the new cadets, emphasizing the importance of balancing their academic pursuits with military training.

He highlighted that both aspects are essential and complementary to their development as future officers.

“The cadets will embark on a comprehensive five-year training program, with the academic component concluding at the end of their fourth year,” Ochai said.

Ochai stated that the matriculation is significant, noting that the cadets are starting their academic journey amid ongoing reforms in military education and training.

He pointed out the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and advancements in technology as critical elements of their training.

“The cadets will have the privilege of undergoing academic and military programs that will equip them to tackle challenges facing both the armed forces and the nation,” he stated.

During his speech, Ochai cautioned the cadets against any form of indiscipline or behavior that could tarnish the reputation of the academy and the military.

He expressed gratitude to the Governor of Kaduna State, Uba Sani, for his continued support of the NDA.

Further, Governor Sani, represented by his Deputy, Dr. Hadiza Balarabe, addressed the cadets, highlighting the evolving nature of warfare in the 21st century.

The governor stressed the need for innovative and creative thinkers, emphasizing the importance of intellectual and technical skills in modern military operations.

Sani noted that the NDA has consistently produced capable officers who meet both local and international standards.

The governor remarked on the critical thinking skills required in contemporary military contexts, stating, “Today, officers of the Armed Forces of Nigeria are graduates.

Sani also shared the Kaduna State government’s commitment to enhancing security through effective collaboration with the military and other security agencies.

He stated the positive impact of community involvement in security efforts.

He said: “People are now able to sleep peacefully and go about their normal lives, thanks to the cooperation from citizens who provide vital information for security purposes.”

About NDA

The Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), located in Kaduna, is a military university that trains officer cadets for commissioning into the Nigerian Armed Forces.

This includes the Army, Navy, and Air Force.

The training program lasts five years, consisting of four years of academic study and one year of military training.

History

Established in February 1964, the NDA emerged from the British-run Royal Military Forces Training College (RMFTC).

Upon Nigeria’s independence, the RMFTC was renamed the Nigerian Military Training College (NMTC).

The NDA trains officers for the Nigerian Army, Navy, and Air Force.

Initially, the academy had only 62 cadets, with most instructors coming from the Indian Army.

The NDA mirrors the structure of the National Defence Academy in Khadakwasla, Pune, India.

The first commandant was Brigadier M.R. Verma from the Indian Army.

By 1978, the NDA transitioned to an entirely Nigerian training staff.

In 1981, it began bilateral training programs with foreign militaries.

In 1985, the academy expanded its offerings to include undergraduate programs for military officers.

Today, it also provides postgraduate degrees, including Master’s and Ph.D. programs for both military personnel and civilians.

Mission of NDA

The core mission of the NDA is to train young officer cadets through a five-year “Regular Combatant Course.”

The course emphasizes military, academic, and character development to instill discipline and leadership skills.

Successful cadets earn a bachelor’s degree and receive presidential commissioning as second lieutenants in the Army or equivalent ranks in the Navy and Air Force.

Until 2011, the cadet program was exclusively male; however, the first female cadets began training in September 2011.

As of 2019, the NDA had approximately 2,500 cadets.

Organization/Administration

Major General John Ochai currently serves as the Commandant of the NDA, succeeding Major General Ibrahim Manu Yusuf.

Military Structure

The NDA’s organizational structure includes several key components:

Headquarters, Directorate of Military Training, Directorate of Administration**

NDA Hospital, NDA Provost Command, Administration Battalion, 92nd Military Intelligence Regiment, 37th NDA Demonstration Battalion, and so on.

Academic Structure

The NDA’s academic framework includes School of Postgraduate Studies, Undergraduate Admissions, and Postgraduate Admissions.

It also include the Faculty of Engineering, Faculty of Science, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, Faculty of Military Science, and Faculty of Management Science.

The NDA plays a crucial role in preparing future leaders for the Nigerian military, fostering a commitment to excellence and integrity in service to the nation.

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