President Goodluck Jonathan has urged graduating members of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) to engage only in noble and rewarding actions that will enhance their professionalism and career prospects, as well as maintain and deepen the confidence that the Nigerian people repose in them.
Jonathan gave the admonition in his speech at the Golden Jubilee of the Nigerian Defence Academy and the Passing out Parade of 61 Regular and 42 Short Service Course Army at the Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna on Monday.
Jonathan described the occasion as a unique one that offers him an opportunity to specially congratulate the Academy, its commandant and staff and all of officers for their service to the nation.
He noted that Nigeria’s aspiration as a people is to build a well-trained, efficient and very effective armed forces that meets national security objectives, pointing out that products and achievements of the NDA are in line with the goal.
“In your career ahead, the nation demands 100 percent loyalty, discipline and absolute dedication to duty,” Jonathan said to the graduating officers.
“The welfare and safety of the men that will be under your command must therefore be top priority. You must make it clear to all, that we will execute a policy of zero tolerance to indiscipline and corruption. The military we are building is one that must at all times serve our people and our Nation, and not the self.”
He bragged that the country’s officers are some of the finest in Africa and among the best in the world. He described it as a matter of national pride that the nation pioneer’s military institution that has risen to the challenge of meeting the human resource needs of sister African countries including the training of officers from the Republic of Liberia, Uganda, Togo, Central African Republic, Sierra Leone and Zimbabwe. He urged the officers to exhibit the high standard and professionalism the NDA is noted for, wherever they go.
“You are passing out at a critical moment for our country,” the president reminded the officers.
“Those of you who will be fortunate enough to be deployed to areas of national challenge have a unique opportunity to distinguish yourselves in your chosen career. A career in our armed forces is not the place for the heartless.
“Our men and women in uniform are bold and brave. They are our pride and our nation will continue to honour and appreciate those who stand strong in defence of our country.”
He directed the Chief of Defence Staff and all the Service Chiefs to institute special honours for Military men who lose their lives in active service of the nation.
“On no account must our country abandon those who serve her loyally, and paid the supreme price,” Jonathan said. “This honour is to ensure that their memories and service live with us and our Nation forever!”