Former Chief of Defence Staff, retired Air Marshal Al-Amin Dagash, has called for a new culture of practical and principled leadership among military officers to address Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.

Mr Dagash, a one-time commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), made the call on Saturday night in Abuja at the 30th Anniversary Reunion Dinner of the NDA 47th Regular Course.

He said the complexity of today’s threats required officers to demonstrate leadership that is hands-on, adaptable and inspiring.

“In this age of multifaceted national and global challenges, Nigeria needs leaders who do more than command.

“We need mentors who can inspire confidence, share lessons of experience, and guide the next generation with integrity and courage,” he said.

The former defence chief praised the 47th Regular Course for conceiving the reunion as a platform for solidarity, honouring fallen colleagues, and supporting widows and less privileged members.

He described such gestures as the highest ideals of comradeship and humanity, while underscoring the role of families in sustaining officers through their careers.

Earlier, the president of 47 RC and director-general of the National Youths Service Corps (NYSC), Brig.-Gen. Olakunle Nafiu said the reunion reminded them of where they began and who they truly are.

Mr Nafiu said the story of the 47 Regular Course was not merely a chapter in the history of the NDA and the armed forces but a living testimony of resilience, sacrifice, and service.

He remembered their fallen colleagues and urged those alive to remember that reunion was never just about the past but also about the future.

According to him, the future of the 47 Regular Course will be defined, not only by the history they have made, but by the choices they make now to stay together, support one another, and channel their collective strength into something bigger than themselves.

He urged them to harness strength, build lasting bridges of mentorship for the next generation, be a refuge for one another in times of need, and leave footprints so clear in their communities.

The dinner drew serving and retired officers, spouses, and dignitaries across the country.

(NAN)