Nigerian Defence Academy Matriculates 439 Cadets

Nigerian Defence Academy Matriculates 439 Cadets

In a significant milestone, the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) matriculated 439 cadets of the 75 Regular Course, underscoring the importance of discipline, integrity, loyalty, and dedication to their chosen careers. The matriculation ceremony, the academy’s 12th, took place on Wednesday in Kaduna.

Out of approximately 30,000 applicants, 439 cadets, including one from the Gambia, were formally admitted into the academy. The cadets were distributed across various faculties, with 138 joining the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, 118 entering the Faculty of Science, and 37 enrolling in the Faculty of Engineering and Technology. Additionally, 55 cadets joined the Faculty of Management Sciences, while 91 cadets embarked on studies in the Faculty of Military Science and Interdisciplinary Studies.

Maj.-Gen. John Ochai, the Commandant of the NDA, highlighted that matriculation at the academy follows a rigorous seven-week military orientation program. He traced the journey of the 75 Regular Course cadets, which began in August 2023, emphasizing that only candidates demonstrating the highest physical, medical, and mental capabilities were selected.

Addressing the parents of the matriculating cadets, Ochai urged them to provide continued support and encouragement, emphasizing the academy’s commitment to preparing the cadets for future national responsibilities. He proudly announced that all of the academy’s undergraduate degree programs have received accreditation from the National Universities Commission, transforming the NDA into a military institution of international standard.

“The NDA of today has therefore transformed into an effective military institution of international standard. It is continuously being equipped with all it takes to meet global standards in consonant with the requirements of our constitutional roles,” Ochai stated.

While acknowledging the challenges that the cadets will face during their training, the commandant urged them to approach their responsibilities with courage and zeal. He reminded them that the purpose of their training is to equip them for national defence and the professional discharge of constitutional responsibilities.

In conclusion, Ochai stressed the importance of adhering strictly to the rules and regulations governing their training in the academy, emphasizing that living up to expectations is crucial for their success in fulfilling their future roles in national defence. The matriculation ceremony serves as a pivotal moment for these cadets as they embark on their academic and military journey at the prestigious Nigerian Defence Academy.