The Chief of Training (Navy), Rear Admiral Abdulrasheed Haruna, has charged passing-out cadets of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) to uphold democratic values, safeguard Nigeria’s national interests and remain committed to their professional responsibilities.
Haruna gave the charge on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, while serving as the Special Guest of Honour at the Beating of the Retreat and prize-giving ceremony held at the RSM Oliver Nzalgana Parade Ground, Afaka, Kaduna State.
Addressing the graduating cadets, the Navy chief urged them to remain vigilant, disciplined and focused as they prepare for commissioning into the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
He stressed that their responsibilities as military officers would require a high level of discipline, professionalism and unwavering commitment to duty, particularly as the country continues to confront evolving security challenges.
Uphold Democratic Values
Haruna reminded the cadets that their military responsibilities extend beyond combat operations, urging them to remain faithful to Nigeria’s Constitution and democratic values.
He called on the future officers to contribute meaningfully to efforts to address security challenges facing Nigeria and allied nations while ensuring that their conduct remains guided by professionalism and respect for constitutional authority.
“Uphold democratic values, safeguard Nigeria’s national interests, and remain committed to your professional responsibilities as you prepare for commissioning into the Armed Forces of Nigeria,” he told the cadets.
The Navy chief also commended the Nigerian Defence Academy for its continued commitment to producing highly trained officers capable of defending the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
NDA Reaffirms Commitment
The Commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy, Major General Oluyemi Olatoye, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to producing officers who are physically fit, mentally sound and morally upright.
Olatoye urged the graduating cadets to carry the values acquired during their training into their professional careers, stressing that discipline, character and military ethics should continue to guide their conduct throughout their service.
He noted that the ceremony provided an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of personnel and cadets during the 2025/2026 training year while reinforcing the importance of military traditions.
Outstanding Cadets, Units Honoured
The ceremony also featured the presentation of awards to cadets who distinguished themselves in various military and sporting activities.
Mogadishu Battalion emerged as the Champion Battalion after securing five trophies during the 2025/2026 training cycle, while Collito Company of Ashanti Battalion was named Champion Company.
Individual cadets were also recognised for outstanding performances in drills, sports, judo, taekwondo and other activities.
The event featured a combat march demonstration by selected cadets, followed by the traditional Beating of the Retreat by the combined band.
Preparing Officers for National Service
The ceremony was attended by senior military commanders, security officials, Academy personnel, members of the Nigerian Defence Academy Officers’ Wives Association, families of the cadets and other invited guests.
The passing-out activities marked an important stage in the cadets’ transition from military training to professional service.
As they prepare for commissioning, the graduating officers are expected to assume responsibilities in defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity and supporting national security operations.
The charge by the Navy chief therefore placed emphasis on the values expected of them as military professionals: discipline, vigilance, loyalty to the Constitution and commitment to the protection of Nigeria’s national interests.
The Nigerian Defence Academy remains a key institution for training officers for the Armed Forces, with its programmes designed to develop the professional, physical and leadership qualities required for military service.