The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, has urged members of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) 38 Regular Course to remain steadfast in loyalty, unity, and patriotism as they continue to contribute to national peace and security.

Mr Musa gave the charge on Saturday night in Abuja at a cocktail party organised by the Course 38 Association to mark its annual reunion.

He described the event as more than a social gathering, saying it symbolised the enduring bond of comradeship forged through shared experiences of military training and national service.

“This evening is not merely a celebration but an affirmation of the strong ties that unite us.

“Our regular course is not just a class, it is a family bound by sacrifice, duty and service to our great nation,” he said.

The CDS commended the newly elected executive of the association for their commitment to sustaining its ideals and charged them to consolidate on the solid foundation laid by their predecessors.

He also applauded the outgoing leadership led by Maj.-Gen. Gadonwa for steering the affairs of the group effectively and fostering cohesion among members.

Mr Musa paid tribute to fallen colleagues, describing their service and sacrifice as a guiding light that must continue to inspire those still in uniform.

He urged members of the course to use their association as a platform for mentorship, professional excellence, and constructive engagement with younger officers across the Armed Forces.

“We have a duty not only to look out for one another but also to share ideas and initiatives that will strengthen the military and advance our nation,” he said.

Mr Musa thanked President Bola Tinubu for his continued support to the Armed Forces, assuring that the military remained committed to ensuring peace, security, and prosperity for Nigeria.

He toasted to the unity and progress of the Course 38 Association, the NDA, and the Federal Republic of Nigeria, while expressing optimism that the camaraderie among course members would continue to grow stronger.

On his part, the COAS, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, lauded the Course 38 Association for sustaining its tradition of brotherhood and humourously described its members as “his tormentors,” recalling fond memories of their shared days of military training.

Mr Oluyede, a member of NDA Course 39 Regular Course, described course 38 as very unique, saying that it had the good, the bad, and the very wise.

He paid tribute to the leadership of the course for maintaining a strong esprit de corps over the years and expressed appreciation to the members for their continued support to the Army and the Nigerian Armed Forces.

The army chief acknowledged the wives and families of course members for their steadfastness, adding that the achievements of the officers would not have been possible without their support.

“Whatever we have become today is a reflection of those early days in the Academy — the discipline, the friendships, the trials, and the laughter.

“I appreciate you all and wish you the very best,” he said.

In his welcome remarks, the president of the 38 Regular Course Association, retired Rear Adm. Solomon Agada, expressed gratitude to God for sustaining members since their admission into the NDA on Sept. 21, 1986.

Mr Agada said the association had continued to grow in strength and purpose, serving as a platform for unity, welfare, and professional collaboration among members.

“This year marks 39 years since our enrolment into the Nigerian Defence Academy. It is always a moment of reflection, thanksgiving, and renewed camaraderie.

Mr Agada also acknowledged the spouses and corporate partners of the association for their continuous support, describing them as integral to the success of members both in and out of service.

The event, which featured reminiscences, tributes, and light-hearted anecdotes, drew attendance from senior military officers, serving and retired, as well as their spouses.

Highlights included the toast to unity, long life, and prosperity for the Course 38 Association, the Nigerian Defence Academy, and the Federal Republic of Nigeria. 

(NAN)