The President, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, has said that the nation’s Armed Forces does not measure up to international best practices in terms of welfare, equipment, training and professionalism.
Jonathan said there has thus arisen the need to do something urgent to correct the deficiencies already noticed.
Represented by Vice President Namadi Sambo, Jonathan said these as the reviewing officer of the passing out parade and commissioning of the Direct Short Service Course 20 of the Nigerian Navy by the Nigerian Defence Academy in Kaduna, Kaduna State.
Jonathan said: “Let me at this juncture reiterate the high premium this administration places on the welfare of the members of the Armed Forces. As Commander-In-Chief, I have repeatedly assured members of the Armed Forces of my desire to transform the Armed Forces into a modern military institution that the nation can be proud of.
“The transformation will make it comparable to other armed forces in the advanced countries in terms of welfare, equipment, training and professionalism.
“I have always been proud of attending this ceremony because it clearly indicates hope and progress for Nigeria. It is an appreciation in line with the national transformation agenda of this administration.
“The Nigerian Navy has initiated its transformation process. The recent acquisition of NNS Thunder and approval for additional platforms are part of implementation process and practical demonstration of the commitment of this administration to restructuring of the Nigerian Navy.
“As the NDA provides equal opportunity for our youths from all over the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to train irrespective of cultural and religious backgrounds, I also urge all of you to utilise the friendship you forged while in the academy to discourage any act of tribalism, promotion of religious or political differences to cause disharmony in our collective unity and peace.
“You must work in synergy with other maritime stakeholders in the cause of your duty in order to achieve our national objective. I believe that you will not be found wanting in this regard.
“You will soon be granted the Presidential Commission and thereafter posted to the various naval and military formation to serve. I urge you to comply strictly with the rules of engagement based on universal best practices in any operation you may be involved either within or outside the shores of our nation.
“It is a source of pride that this citadel of military education has continued to live up to its responsibility in training and churning out excellent men and women for the Nigerian Armed Forces.
“Today’s occasion is indeed unique in that the DSSC training is made up of only Naval cadets who for the past nine months have received the best military training comparable to any similar academy in the world which has imbibed in them the best Naval tradition and discipline.
“There is no doubt that both the physical and mental training received have prepared you to make meaningful impact in your chosen career.”
Eighty-five cadets were commissioned, with three of them receiving Navy Gold Medal, Navy Silver Medal and Commandant’s awards.