The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, says the Armed Forces and other security agencies are unwaveringly committed to restoring total peace in the country.
Musa made the commitment at the Regimental Dinner night in honour of the passing out cadets of the 71 Regular Course, Direct Short Service Course 28 Army and 32 Air Force of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), on Friday in Kaduna.
Musa, who was the Special Guest of Honour, said the regimental dinner night was an important military tradition.
The CDS said that it afforded the passing out cadets the rare opportunity to meet and interact with senior serving and retired military officers in a relaxed social setting.
He reminded them that the Armed Forces of Nigeria expected so much from them in terms of regimentation.
“I must emphasise on the importance of discipline and integrity in the Service,” he said.
According to him, these are the foremost twin qualities that every passing out cadet is expected to present at all times.
“The absence of these qualities in a passing out cadet renders such individuals unfit for the officer cadre.
“I implore you to ensure that in all your acquisition in the Nigeria Defence Academy; that you gain character glittering with discipline and integrity.
“This is because these are the prime qualities that would sustain you in the officers’ corps,” he said.
Musa, therefore, challenged the passing out cadets to build those regimental attitudes that would distinguish them among their peers and contemporary.
He further said that the training they had undergone in the Academy was in sync with the new paradigm, which would enable them to take up leadership positions and responsibility as military officers.
Musa said, “This is particularly against the backdrop that our dear country is presently confronted with several internal security challenges which have heavily burdened the Armed Forces.
“It is in recognition of this fact that you must therefore arm yourselves with the vital leadership qualities to effectively contribute your bits towards the restoration of the country to its place of pride as it concerns security.”
He enjoined them to make certain that they were fully baked in all ramifications to accommodate the complex prevailing demands of the noble profession.
“I must remind you that you are obliged to be willing, able and ready, to develop yourselves above board,” the CDS said.
Musa charged them to prepare to go through harder huddles after their graduation in order to enable them lead men effectively and courageously in the theatres of operations.
He also charged them to be honest, loyal, brave and above all, have integrity in leading men placed under their command.
“I urge you to remain disciplined, law-abiding and committed gentlemen officers,” Musa said.
The CDS thanked President Bola Tinubu for his unwavering support to the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the cadets who distinguished themselves received awards. (NAN)