In a groundbreaking ceremony that marked a significant milestone in the history of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General CG Musa, on Thursday, January 16, 2025, inaugurated multiple transformative projects across the institution.
Under the leadership of the NDA Commandant, Major General JO Ochai, the projects include 21 operational vehicles, ranging from buses and an ambulance to gun trucks, troop carriers, and Toyota Hilux trucks. Additionally, a children’s park and sports center were established at the NDA Primary School in Afaka, alongside an ultramodern Emergency and Trauma Centre at the NDA Hospital, equipped with cutting-edge medical technology for trauma care.
The newly commissioned Basic Officers Training Wing boasts battalion offices and 50-room hostels, while new departmental buildings now serve the Department of Defense and Security Studies, the Department of Psychology, and classroom blocks.
General Musa also visited the NDA Officers’ Mess and Golf Club, where he inaugurated Hole 1 of the golf course and broke ground for 39 studios and suites at the Officers’ Mess, a tribute to members of the 39 Regular Course. In recognition of his contributions, the General CG Musa Orchard was commissioned.
Lauding the academy’s leadership, General Musa described the projects as “historic” and vital to enhancing the training, welfare, and healthcare of cadets and staff. “Today marks a historic milestone in the academy’s industrious journey as the premier institution for military leadership, generalship, and character development,” he said.
He emphasized the importance of the projects in equipping cadets with modern facilities to meet the demands of a dynamic military landscape. “These facilities empower the academy to fulfill its mandate of producing officers of the highest caliber and quality,” he stated.
Major General JO Ochai attributed the projects to a vision of creating a conducive environment for excellence. “In a changing world, we must embrace change. Modern warfare is evolving, and the training of cadets must adapt to meet the demands of the modern battlefield,” he remarked.
The event also featured significant contributions from Mrs. Oghogho Musa, President of the Defence and Police Officers Wives Association (DEPOWA). She commissioned the NDA Boarding Secondary School and performed groundbreaking ceremonies for the NDA Skills Acquisition Centre, the NDA Officers Wives Association (NDAOWA) Secretariat, and the NDA Maternity Centre, a project championed by members of the NDA Regular Course 38.
The day concluded with colorful presentations, including musical renditions by the NDA dance band and the Nigerian Air Force band, underscoring the celebratory spirit of the occasion.
The projects reflect Major General JO Ochai’s transformative leadership, positioning the NDA as a beacon of excellence in military training and development.
