Tinubu Urges 72 Regular Course and Short Service Newly Commissioned Officers to Defend Nation at NDA 2025 Passing-Out Parade
By Ayshatu S. Rabo
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, on Saturday charged Nigeria’s Armed Forces to intensify efforts to eradicate insurgency, protect the economy, and uphold national values at the Passing-Out Parade of the 71st Regular Course of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Kaduna. the Combined passing out parade of NDA 72 Regular Course, Short Service Course 48 (Army), Direct Short Service Course 33 (Air Force) and Branch Commission 2 (Air Force).
READ ALSO: Pictures: 72 Cadets Commissioned as Officers at NDA 2025 Passing-Out Parade in Kaduna
In his message, President Tinubu commended the NDA for its ongoing reforms, which he said have strengthened the training, discipline, and character development of officers in formation. He urged the newly commissioned officers to remain courageous, professional, and loyal as they assume their duties, reminding them that their commission carries a solemn duty to defend Nigeria’s sovereignty and unity.
Top Military and Political Figures in Attendance
The parade drew a constellation of dignitaries from military, political, and social spheres. Among those present were:
Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar CON, mni
Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa
Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede
Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla
Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Bala Abubakar
Commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy, Major General A.K. Ibrahim
Former Chief of Army Staff, Lt-General Faruk Yahaya (rtd.)
Former Senate Presidents and several serving Senators
Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State
Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State
The DEPOWA President, Mrs. Oghogho G. Musa, who attended the ceremony as part of the support from the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association.
Also in attendance were senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, traditional rulers, and the families of the graduating cadets, all gathered at the NDA parade ground in a show of national pride.
President’s Charge to the New Officers
The President, via Senate President Akpabio, reminded the officers that their commissioning is more than a ceremony — it marks the beginning of public service that demands discipline, sacrifice, and integrity.
“Your commission today comes with the responsibility to defend Nigeria’s territorial integrity, safeguard our people, and uphold the values of unity, courage, and patriotism. The nation looks up to you,” the President was quoted as saying.
Parade Highlights & Awards
The Passing-Out Parade featured a grand march-past, slow and quick drills, salutes, and displays of military precision. The cadets demonstrated skill in parade drills and combat demonstrations—testament to their rigorous training. Outstanding cadets in academics, leadership, and physical performance received awards and commendations in front of guests and family members.
Service Chiefs Reaffirm Resolve
Alongside acknowledging the new officers, the Service Chiefs reaffirmed their commitment to modernizing Nigeria’s Armed Forces and building a military capable of addressing terrorism, banditry, and evolving security threats facing the country.
Meaning & Next Steps
The NDA Passing-Out Parade is one of Nigeria’s most symbolic national ceremonies, marking the transition of cadets into fully commissioned officers entrusted with defending the nation. The commissioning of these 72 officers comes at a pivotal moment, as the government continues to lean heavily on its security apparatus amidst internal and external challenges.
In the days ahead, the 71st Regular Course officers will be deployed across the Army, Navy, and Air Force to begin their operational assignments, stepping into roles where the ideals instilled at the academy will be tested in service of the nation.
Tinubu Urges 72 Regular Course and Short Service Newly Commissioned Officers to Defend Nation at NDA 2025 Passing-Out Parade