Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, has tasked graduating cadets of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) to be ready to meet the high expectations of the Armed Forces of Nigeria by bracing up to play their part towards resolving contemporary security challenges facing Nigeria.
Air Marshal Abubakar told the cadets where he was the Special Guest of Honour at the NDA 2024 Beating of the Retreat and Prize Giving Ceremony held on Wednesday at the NDA Parade Ground, Afaka that they must be determined to make a difference, not only through bravery in battle but also by mastery of the tools and innovations that are reshaping modern warfare.
The CAS reminded the graduating cadets of 71 Regular Course and Direct Short Service Course 28 Army and 32 Air Force, that considerable resources had been invested into building their capacity and shaping their character development through quality military training and a sound academic foundation.
He therefore called on the cadets to always put the nation first, and give their best in the defence of her territorial integrity and protection of the people.
“As you prepare to be commissioned as officers, remember that the hopes and aspirations of our country rest on your shoulders. Therefore, it is time to ask not what your country can do for you but what you can do for your country,” the CAS noted.
Air Marshal Abubakar commended the Commandant and staff of the NDA for upholding the time-honoured tradition of the Beating of the Retreat, which symbolizes the end of the training year.
He congratulated the award-winning cadets and battalions, urging them to continue striving for excellence. The CAS also reminded the cadets about the importance of integrity, loyalty, and courage in their service to the nation.
Earlier in the day, Air Marshal Abubakar inspected ongoing infrastructural projects at the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Base Kaduna, providing strategic guidance to ensure qualitative and timely project outcomes.
He also toured newly upgraded facilities at the NDA Air Force Wing, where he lauded the improvements aimed at supporting the training of future officers. While there, the CAS engaged in a robust interactive session with NAF officers, airmen, and airwomen serving at NDA.
He commended their dedication to duty and urged them to sustain the high standards of excellence and professionalism for which the NAF is known.