The Air Officer Commanding (AOC), Air Training Command, Nigerian Air Force, AVM Esen Paul-Efanga, has urged passing-out cadets of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) to lead with integrity, courage and empathy.
Paul-Efanga gave the charge at the NDA Commandant’s Luncheon organised in honour of cadets of 73 Regular Course, Short Service Course 49 (Army), Direct Short Service Course 34 (Air Force) and Branch Commission Course 3 (Air Force).
This is contained in a statement issued on Sunday by the Academy’s Public Relations Officer, Maj. Njoka Irabor, in Kaduna.
The AOC urged the cadets to embrace leadership responsibility, while demonstrating unwavering loyalty to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
He said the luncheon provided an opportunity for experienced officers to share their experiences and offer guidance to the cadets ahead of their commissioning into the Armed Forces.
Paul-Efanga reminded the cadets that the insignia of commissioned officers were not merely symbols of authority but badges of responsibility.
He urged them to prioritise the welfare of personnel under their command, stressing that effective leadership required sacrifice, discipline and commitment to duty.
The AOC further charged the cadets to remain loyal to the Constitution, saying the NDA motto, “Loyalty and Valour” should become their creed as they transition from academy life to operational responsibilities.
Paul-Efanga also encouraged them to pursue continuous learning, professional development and mentorship, stressing that excellence in the military profession was achieved through discipline, hard work and commitment to duty.
Earlier, the Commandant, NDA, Maj.-Gen. Oluyemi Olatoye, congratulated the cadets on reaching the final stage of their training.
Olatoye said their transition into commissioned officers represented not only a change in rank and status but also the assumption of a solemn responsibility to safeguard Nigeria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
He urged the cadets to lead by example, uphold justice and fairness, and remain committed to continuous professional and intellectual development.
The commandant also charged them to strive to leave every appointment better than they met it.
The luncheon featured traditional dances by various groups and a musical presentation by the NDA Band.
Presentation of a souvenir to Paul-Efanga in appreciation of his presence and participation was among the highlights of the event.
