Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, on Friday told Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) graduands that Nigeria’s future rested on their shoulders, urging them to prepare for the task ahead.

Mr Oluyede stated this at a regimental dinner held in honour of cadets of the 72 Regular Course, Short Service Course 48, Army, Direct Short Service Course 33, Air Force, and Branch Commission 2, Air Force.

The COAS thanked the commandant for inviting him as the special guest of honour and appreciated the opportunity to talk to the new military officers.

He stressed that the Armed Forces were tasked with safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty, and that the cadets would soon become stakeholders in that noble mandate.

Mr Oluyede urged the cadets to uphold the core values of their respective services, including professionalism, resilience, and loyalty to the nation.

He noted that the security landscape was dynamic and complex, and future warfare would be shaped by technological advancements.

The COAS therefore encouraged the cadets to adapt quickly, be technologically savvy, and innovative.

The army chief emphasised the importance of leadership, trust, and accountability in the military profession.

He stressed the need for well-thought-out plans and decisive action in the face of uncertainties.

Mr Oluyede commended the cCommandant, staff, and instructors of the NDA for their excellent work and congratulated the passing out cadets on their achievements.

He appreciated President Bola Tinubu for his steadfast belief in and support of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

He added, “I equally appreciate the minister of defence, minister of state for defence, the chief of defence staff, and members of the Nigerian Defence Academy Council for their invaluable support. However, I must remind you that every successful outcome remains uncertain until the very end. It is therefore not over until it is over. God willing, on September 27, I will see each one of you seated here, successfully march past the saluting dais with your heads held up high. To our soon-to-be officers, I congratulate you once again and wish you the best of luck and most fulfilling careers in your respective services.”

(NAN)