The Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Ibok Ibas, on Friday said the Nigerian military has done creditably well in tackling the numerous security challenges that have confronted the nation in recent times.
This was contained in a statement by the spokesman of the Nigerian Defence Academy, Major Abubakar Abdullahi, in Kaduna.
The Naval chief made the remarks at the Regimental Dinner in honour of graduating cadets of the academy’s Regular Course.
Ibas was represented at the event by the Naval Secretary, Rear Admiral Fredric Ugwu.
He noted that the successes achieved, particularly in the fight against insurgency in the North East, was made possible by the selfless commitment of military personnel, some of whom had paid the supreme sacrifice.
Ibas called on the graduating cadets to justify the huge resources expended on their training, which was carefully designed to equip them with skills and intellect to deal with the diverse challenges in the course of their career.
The naval chief reminded the cadets that military service requires unalloyed loyalty to the nation.
He said: “Therefore I task you to be committed to the sustenance of Nigeria’s democracy and the ethos of the military profession.
“You should always strive towards protecting the unity of Nigeria and protecting her territorial integrity, as well as preserving the customs, ethics, traditions and core values of the Nigerian Armed Forces.”
Ibas admonished them to eschew flamboyant lifestyles that would put a strain on their finances and shun the pursuit of pecuniary gains that would dent their character and that of the military.
On the dinner, Ibas said it was cherished military tradition to promote discipline, orderliness, loyalty, regimentation, espirit d’corps, and give the cadets opportunity to interact with senior military officers, gain valuable insights and inspiration.
“I hoped that this particular event will energize you ahead of a lofty career in the Nigerian military,” he added.
He commended the Commandant, Major General Adeniyi Oyebade, for his dedication and commitment towards enhancing teaching and learning at the Academy.
He said that the NDA has justified the huge investment made by the country as it has graduated cadets that have helped to shape a better future for the armed forces.