As the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) marks its 60th anniversary, it stands not only as a venerable institution but as a guardian of the nation’s security, embodying a rich history of resilience, discipline, and unwavering commitment. From its inception to the present day, the NDA has played a pivotal role in shaping the defenders of Nigeria and contributing significantly to the nation’s security landscape.
Established on October 5, 1964, the NDA was born out of the necessity to have a unified institution that could produce well-trained and disciplined officers capable of defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity. The timing was critical, as it coincided with a period of heightened regional tensions and the impending Nigerian Civil War. The academy emerged as a crucible where the ethos of service to the nation was instilled in cadets who would go on to become the vanguards of Nigeria’s security.
The Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970), also known as the Biafran War, was a defining one.
The NDA has left an indelible mark on the history of Nigeria, shaping the nation’s security architecture and producing leaders who have contributed significantly to various fields.
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The NDA’s products had contributed significantly to Nigeria’s security environment right from the time of the civil war (1967–1971) when its Course One cadets were commissioned and sent to the war front. As young officers, the commissioned officers demonstrated exceptional leadership and military skills in restoring peace and unity to the nation.
The NDA alumni were actively involved in addressing internal uprisings (1970s–2000s), including the Niger Delta militancy. The academy adapted its training to equip officers with the skills needed for counterinsurgency and peacekeeping operations.
Subsequent internal uprisings and security challenges, including the Niger Delta militancy and the Boko Haram insurgency, tested the mettle of NDA alumni. The academy, adapting to evolving threats, continued to refine its curriculum, ensuring that officers were equipped with the skills and mindset needed to address contemporary security challenges.
Over the years, the NDA evolved its curriculum to address emerging security challenges, ensuring that officers were well-prepared to mitigate the diverse security threats confronting the nation.
The Academy plays a crucial leadership role in addressing extremism, particularly in the context of the complex security challenges faced by Nigeria. An overview of the NDA’s leadership role in addressing extremism includes counterterrorism training, which is instrumental in providing specialized training to military personnel in counterterrorism tactics and strategies. Given the persistent threat of extremist groups in Nigeria, including Boko Haram, the academy plays a vital role in preparing officers for counterinsurgency operations.
As a high-ranking military academy, the NDA has embarked on a holistic military education that includes an understanding of the socio-political and economic factors contributing to extremism for its cadets. This holistic approach equips leaders with a broader perspective to address the root causes of extremism.
The NDA has also been continually unrelenting in the development of its trainees in strategic leadership. The NDA focuses on developing strategic leadership skills among its cadets. This includes an emphasis on critical thinking, decision-making, and adaptability, which are essential qualities for leaders confronting the multifaceted challenges posed by extremism.
The NDA places a strong emphasis on instilling ethical leadership values in its cadets. Ethical leadership is crucial in maintaining the integrity of the military and fostering public trust, especially when combating extremist threats.
The NDA fosters collaboration and joint training exercises with other security agencies, such as the police and intelligence services. This interagency cooperation is essential for a coordinated response to extremism that goes beyond traditional military operations.
Research and analysis
At the end of their training before commissioning, the NDA engages its cadets in research and analysis related to the evolving nature of geopolitical development in the world. Cadets of the NDA are also required to conduct research in science and technology before being granted a commission.
This research contributes to the development of effective counterterrorism strategies and ensures that military leaders are informed and adaptable in their approach. The commissioned officers are well-exposed to the daunting political shenanigans around the world.
Community engagement and outreach
One of the paramount areas that cadets are exposed to during training is civil-military relations. This is a new trend, as the dynamics of education are changing people’s thinking. In this regard, the curriculum of the NDA is noted for community engagement and outreach programmes. Building positive relationships with local communities is crucial for gathering intelligence, preventing radicalisation, and gaining support in the fight against extremism.
In recent times, the NDA products that are playing pivotal roles in the political arena in the country are participating in erecting enduring legacies spanning the length and breadth of Nigeria. Not too long ago, the Chief of the Army Staff built and commissioned some projects in Ekiti State and donated a hospital in Oyo.
The various services have also built tertiary institutions useful to both service personnel and civilians, especially the host communities. Even outside Nigeria, as part of peacebuilding efforts in then-war-torn Liberia, Nigerian Armed Forces members serving in Liberia constructed and built dilapidated utility facilities in the country.
International cooperation/engagement
The NDA collaborates with international partners and participates in multinational efforts to counter extremism. This includes joint training exercises, intelligence sharing, and cooperation in peacekeeping missions where extremism is a concern. Some of our cadets are sent to military academies globally on exchange programs. The NDA also receives cadets from other countries in recognition of the sound military training taught to the cadets of the NDA.
Cadets of the NDA made history recently as seven of them proudly represented their country as the only international competitors at the inaugural People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy “Deep Sea Warrior” International Seamanship Competition in China.
The competition, hosted by the PLA Naval Submarine Academy, took place at the Qingdao International Sailing Centre from October 16 to 21, 2023. While other countries participated as observers, the Nigerian cadets courageously competed against their Chinese counterparts, showcasing their skills and determination.
The participation of the cadets is indeed a significant milestone and an assertion that the NDA curriculum has evolved over the years to meet what is obtained in major academies globally. More on the improvement of cadets training is that cadets now go for different specialized warfare training such as amphibious courses and air born/para dropping training to prepare them for more sophisticated conflict environments in future warfare.
NDA alumni have excelled in international peacekeeping missions, showcasing Nigeria’s commitment to global peace and security. The academy’s emphasis on diplomacy and collaboration has fostered positive international relations and diplomatic engagement. The NDA has produced officers who have excelled in diplomatic roles, contributing to Nigeria’s influence on the international stage and strengthening diplomatic ties with other nations.
Cybersecurity training
Recognising the growing role of technology in modern warfare, the NDA is impacting the training of its cadets in cybersecurity. This is essential for countering online radicalisation and addressing the use of technology by extremist groups. Today, drones and other allied technologies are used for effective intelligence activities. NDA is, therefore, at the forefront of training its cadets to meet the necessity of cyber technology.
The NDA equally, emphasises the development of effective communication skills among its future leaders. This is essential for conveying messages that counter extremist narratives and building public support for counterterrorism efforts.
The Nigerian Defence Academy’s leadership role in the face of multifaceted security challenges has embarked on an encompassing training, education, collaboration, and community engagement. The academy plays a critical role in shaping leaders who are not only capable military tacticians but also ethical and strategic thinkers prepared to address the complex cyber-challenges posed by extremism in its various dimensions.
The NDA today
As the NDA marks its sixtieth year, it stands as a testament to its enduring commitment to producing officers of the highest calibre. The academy’s contributions have extended beyond the battlefield, encompassing peacekeeping missions, humanitarian efforts, and collaborations with international partners. Its alumni, occupying key positions in the military, politics and beyond, continue to make their mark in various fields, upholding the core values instilled by the NDA.
Looking ahead
The Nigerian Defence Academy, with its storied past and current achievements, looks toward the future with optimism. The challenges may evolve, but the NDA’s legacy of producing leaders capable of navigating the complexities of security threats remains steadfast. As the academy celebrates 60 years, it does so not just as an institution but as a beacon of national pride—a symbol of resilience, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to securing the nation.
In commemorating the 60th anniversary of the NDA, let us reflect not only on the milestones of the past but also on the promise of the future—a future where the academy continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the destiny of a secure and prosperous Nigeria. Happy anniversary to my Alma Mater, the Nigerian Defence Academy!
Col Oluwadare (rtd), NDA
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