Maj Gen A.K. Ibrahim Bows Out After 33 Years of Service, Highlights Reforms at NDA

Maj Gen A.K. Ibrahim Bows Out After 33 Years of Service, Highlights Reforms at NDA

By Ayshatu S. Rabo 

The outgone Commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Major General A.K. Ibrahim, OFR, has officially retired from the Nigerian Army after a distinguished 33-year career, pledging continued loyalty to the nation as he handed over leadership of the Academy on Saturday during his Pulling-Out Parade in Kaduna.

Speaking at the event, the senior officer described his military journey as “one of the greatest honours of my life,” expressing deep gratitude to Almighty Allah and pride in the reforms achieved during his six-month tenure as the 33rd Commandant of the premier military institution.

General Ibrahim, who was commissioned into the Infantry Corps in 1992 as a member of the 39 Regular Combatant Course, recounted his rise through various command, staff, and international peacekeeping roles. He commanded several key formations including 1 Division Garrison, 14 Brigade, 7 Division, and served as the longest-serving Force Commander of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) in N’Djamena, Chad.

He also served in ECOMOG operations in Liberia and on multiple UN Peacekeeping missions in Liberia and Sudan.

Reforms at the NDA

Reflecting on his tenure at the Nigerian Defence Academy, Major General Ibrahim said he assumed duty with a clear vision to strengthen discipline, academic standards, welfare, and training quality. Despite limited funds, he led a sweeping infrastructural renewal programme, reinforced regimental pride, and introduced performance-based assessment systems for cadets.

He noted that welfare and training improvements boosted morale and discipline across the Academy, adding that the most recent NDA selection process was adjudged one of the most transparent in recent years. He thanked his team for helping restore the Academy’s status as a centre of excellence for military leadership and intellectual development.

Gratitude and National Honours

Maj Gen Ibrahim expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Nigerian Army leadership, and former Service Chiefs for their support throughout his career. He also acknowledged the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) granted to him by the Federal Government, and the National Order of Chad (NOOC) awarded by the Chadian government.

ALSO READ: Group Berates Femi Falana Over Comment Linking Gaduwa Dispute to 2015 Zaria Incident

He paid emotional tribute to his family, colleagues, and fallen soldiers, noting that the sacrifices made across decades of service underscore the importance of strong leadership and national unity.

Message to Officers Coming Behind

As he bowed out, the outgoing Commandant urged younger officers to remain disciplined, courageous, innovative, and compassionate.

“Care for the men and equipment under your charge. Lead with responsibility, think outside the box, and remain mission-oriented,” he advised.

Incoming Commandant Takes Over

Major General A.K. Ibrahim expressed confidence in his successor, Maj Gen O.T. Olatoye, urging him to sustain the momentum of reforms for the benefit of the Academy and the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

The ceremony marked the end of an illustrious career, but General Ibrahim reaffirmed his willingness to continue contributing to national development whenever called upon.

Maj Gen A.K. Ibrahim Bows Out After 33 Years of Service, Highlights Reforms at NDA