The newly appointed Commandant of the National Defence College (NDC), Rear Admiral Abdullahi Ahmed, has assured participants of improved learning conditions and advanced strategic teaching methods as the institution works to enhance high-level defence education in Nigeria.
Rear Admiral Ahmed gave the assurance during the handing and taking over ceremony held in Abuja, the nation’s capital.
He explained that “the National Defence College remains the apex military strategic training institution responsible for preparing senior officers particularly Colonels and Commanders as well as equivalent civilian personnel, for national, regional, and global strategic leadership roles.”
Rear Admiral Ahmed stressed that under his leadership, the college would adopt improved learning facilities, upgraded academic methods, and additional innovative strategic teaching approaches that reflect modern defence realities.
According to him, “participants should expect curricula and interactions that will expand their capacity to provide viable strategic solutions for national security challenges.”
Rear Admiral Ahmed also paid glowing tribute to the outgoing Commandant, describing him as one of his greatest academic influencers.
He recalled that during their formative years, the outgoing Commandant served as his executive officer and was a highly intelligent instructor who helped shape the basic standards that guided their performance in college training and field operations.
Rear Admiral Ahmed described the former Commandant as a mentor and spiritual guide who consistently reminded younger officers of the importance of discipline, focus, and readiness for the strategic challenges that come after cadetship.
He emphasised that as Commandant today, he sees himself not just as an administrator but also as “a father and a brother” to the participants.
Rear Admiral Ahmed further stated that he is determined to maintain and surpass the high standards set by his predecessors.
He promised to remain open to advice and constructive feedback while providing the leadership and enabling environment needed for the college to continue producing well-grounded strategic leaders for the Nigerian Armed Forces and the nation at large.
The outgone Commandant of the National Defence College (NDC) expressed appreciation to members of the college community, stating that “in the past four months significant efforts were made to refocus the institution in line with its core mandate and strategic research objectives.”
The former Commandant, Rear Admiral James Okosun recalled that he assumed office on July 7 and is now handing over the same responsibility, describing the journey “as impactful and transformative.”
Okosun noted that reforms were initiated across academic practices, college processes, and infrastructure to reposition the institution for better performance.
According to him, the team worked deliberately to strengthen the Center for Strategic Research and Studies in alignment with the fundamental objectives of the National Defence College.
Okosun said that the incoming dean has shown readiness to consolidate on the foundation already laid, with additional ideas and experience that would further enhance the college.
He thanked members of the faculty, college committee, and staff for their cooperation and support throughout his tenure.
The former Commandant emphasised that the achievements recorded were collective and would not have been possible without their commitment.
Okosun also reaffirmed his pride in the institution, stressing that “the National Defence College remains a globally respected centre for strategic defence learning.”
He urged the college community to continue supporting the new leadership as they advance the NDC vision.