Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has charged graduating cadets of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) to put Nigeria’s interests first, uphold national unity and embrace innovation as they begin their military careers. This was disclosed in a statement issued on Saturday, September 19, by the Academy’s Public Relations Officer, Maj. Njoka Irabo, in Kaduna.
Oluyede gave the charge at the NDA Regimental Dinner Night in Kaduna, held for cadets of the 73 Regular Course, Short Service Course 49 (Army), Direct Short Service Course 34 (Air Force) and Branch Commission Course 3 (Air Force).
The CDS commended the cadets for their discipline, sacrifice and perseverance during their rigorous military and academic training. He urged them to uphold courage, integrity, loyalty and professionalism, noting that many would soon be deployed to operational theatres across the country.
Oluyede also urged the future officers to remain adaptable and technologically skilled as modern warfare evolves. He identified Artificial Intelligence, unmanned systems and cyber operations as emerging capabilities, stressing that innovation, critical thinking and sound judgment would be essential to effective military leadership.
He reminded the cadets that their decisions would affect not only their careers but also the Armed Forces and personnel under their command. He therefore encouraged them to seek guidance from experienced officers, pursue continuous learning and uphold the values of the Nigerian military.
The event featured the presentation of awards to outstanding cadets for the 2025/2026 training session, as well as souvenirs to the CDS by the NDA Commandant.
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