NDA Shines with Unprecedented Projects as CDS Commissions Key Facilities to Boost Training, Welfare, and Healthcare

NDA Shines with Unprecedented Projects as CDS Commissions Key Facilities to Boost Training, Welfare, and Healthcare

By Matthew Eloyi

In a groundbreaking ceremony hailed as a historic milestone, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General CG Musa, on Thursday, January 16, 2025, commissioned a series of transformative projects at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) under the visionary leadership of Commandant Major General JO Ochai.

The newly completed projects include 21 operational vehicles for diverse functions, such as buses, an ambulance, troop carriers, gun trucks, and Toyota Hilux trucks. In addition, the NDA Primary School in Afaka now boasts a children’s park and a modern sports centre.

A state-of-the-art Emergency and Trauma Centre at the NDA Hospital was also unveiled, equipped with advanced medical technology to enhance trauma care. Other completed facilities include the NDA Basic Officers Training Wing, featuring battalion offices and 50-room hostels, along with new departmental buildings for Defense and Security Studies, Psychology, and additional classrooms and offices.

General Musa also visited the NDA Officers’ Mess and Golf Club, inaugurating Hole 1 of the golf course and launching the construction of 39 studios and suites to honour the 39 Regular Course members. He further commissioned the General CG Musa Orchard, a tribute to his contributions.

Speaking at the event, General Musa lauded Major General JO Ochai’s leadership, emphasising the importance of these projects in enhancing training, welfare, and healthcare. “Today marks a historic milestone in the academy’s industrious journey as the premier institution for military leadership, generalship, and character development. These facilities—spanning training, medical, administrative, and recreational amenities—are essential pillars of excellence,” he said.

He reiterated the NDA’s role as a symbol of Nigeria’s commitment to defense and security. “It is here that leaders are nurtured, trained, and equipped with the intellect and truth needed to defend the integrity and sovereignty of our nation,” he added.

The President of the Defence and Police Officers Wives Association (DEPOWA), Mrs. Oghogho Musa, was also present. She commissioned the NDA Boarding Secondary School, an initiative of Major General JO Ochai, and led groundbreaking ceremonies for the NDA Skills Acquisition Centre, the NDA Officers Wives Association (NDAOWA) Secretariat, and the NDA Maternity Centre, a legacy project of NDA Regular Course 38 members.

Major General Ochai underscored the academy’s commitment to adapting to the evolving demands of modern warfare. “In a changing world, we must embrace change. Modern warfare is evolving, and therefore, the training of cadets must adapt to meet the demands of the modern battlefield,” he said.

The day concluded with vibrant performances by the NDA dance band and the Nigerian Air Force band, along with souvenir presentations, reflecting the academy’s celebratory mood and its unwavering commitment to excellence.