COAS Commends National Defence College for Strategic Excellence; Pledges Enhanced Support
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has lauded the National Defence College (NDC) for its pivotal role in shaping strategic leadership within the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN).
The COAS gave this commendation during a courtesy visit by the Commandant of the NDC, Rear Admiral Abdullahi Ahmed, and his delegation at the Army Headquarters in Abuja. Describing the NDC as a “reliable citadel of learning,” Gen Shaibu noted that the college’s research-driven approach has been instrumental in the Nigerian Army’s (NA) ongoing reforms and its ability to maintain operational efficiency nationwide.
Strengthening the Strategic Cadre
The Army Chief emphasized that the high caliber of senior officers currently manning strategic formations across the country is a direct result of the rigorous training provided by the NDC. “The Nigerian Army will continue to rely on the college for the education of our strategic leadership cadre,” Gen Shaibu stated. He further expressed his commitment to deepening the partnership between the two institutions to foster national peace, stability, and development.
In a significant gesture of support, the COAS assured the Commandant that the Army is prepared to assist the NDC with infrastructure development, ensuring that the institution remains a world-class environment for military and civilian leaders to master modern operational techniques.
Innovation and Curriculum Reform
Earlier, Rear Admiral Abdullahi Ahmed congratulated the COAS on his appointment and recent promotion. He highlighted the NDC’s unique position as the nation’s premier military training institution, catering to:
- Senior officers of the Armed Forces.
- Senior civil servants from various Ministries and Departments.
- Officers from paramilitary organizations and
- International officers from allied nations.
The Commandant revealed that the college is currently reviewing its curriculum to more effectively address contemporary security challenges, specifically:
- Counter-terrorism and insurgency.
- Unconventional warfare strategies.
- Cybersecurity and intelligence integration.
Admiral Ahmed expressed his gratitude to the COAS for securing the college’s critical facilities and for his pledge to support the NDC’s transition to its permanent site.
The visit concluded with a formal exchange of souvenirs and the signing of the visitors’ book. The Commandant was accompanied by the Deputy Commandant and Director of Studies, Major General Kelvin Ukandu, along with other senior directors from the college.
