On December 16, 2024, the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) welcomed 523 cadets of the 76 Regular Course at its 13th matriculation ceremony. The event marked the formal beginning of their academic and military training.
Held at the Academy Auditorium, the ceremony was attended by high-ranking military officials, dignitaries, and the families of the new cadets. Deputy Governor Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe, representing the Executive Governor of Kaduna State, Senator Uba Sani, congratulated the cadets on this significant milestone.
In her address, the Deputy Governor emphasized the importance of discipline, loyalty, and determination, urging the cadets to commit fully to their training over the next five years. She also praised the NDA for its vital contributions to national security and commended the Commandant, Major General JO Ochai, for the ongoing infrastructural developments and the dedicated efforts of the Academy’s personnel.
Major General Ochai welcomed the cadets and their families, urging the new cadets to maintain discipline and focus throughout their training. He noted that they were selected from a pool of highly qualified candidates and are expected to uphold academic excellence and military discipline.
Earlier in the day, the cadets participated in an Oath Taking Ceremony at the Oliver Nzalgana Parade Ground, committing to uphold military and civilian laws and the regulations of the NDA. Brigadier General OI Odigie, the Cadet Brigade Commander, encouraged the cadets to embody values such as discipline, courage, and loyalty as they embark on their academy journey.
The 76 Regular Course consists of cadets from diverse backgrounds who will undergo a five-year training program across various fields, including Arts, Social Sciences, Science, Engineering, and Military Science.