National Defence College Hosts Dinner and Awards Night in Honour of Course 33 Graduands

The National Defence College (NDC), Nigeria, hosted a Dinner and Awards Night to celebrate the graduating participants of Course 33. The event, held at the College premises, was part of the activities marking the conclusion of the 11-month Strategic Leadership Course.

In his remarks, the Special Guest of Honour and Honourable Minister of State for Defence, His Excellency Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, congratulated the graduands and noted that the occasion provided an opportunity for participants to interact with one another and with invited guests in a convivial atmosphere. He added that the dinner also allowed participants to unwind after months of rigorous academic and leadership training. The Minister commended the Commandant of NDC, Rear Admiral James Ohimai Okosun, and his team for imparting the requisite knowledge and skills that will enable participants to effectively discharge their constitutional responsibilities in their respective countries.

In his welcome address, the Commandant, Rear Admiral Okosun, expressed appreciation to the Special Guest of Honour and other dignitaries for gracing the occasion despite their busy schedules. He explained that the event was organised to honour the graduating participants and their families in a relaxed social setting.

Reflecting on the journey of Course 33, the Commandant recounted the dedication and effort invested in ensuring that participants acquired the knowledge and capacity needed to excel in their professional duties. He also expressed gratitude to the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his unwavering support to the College. He lauded the Honourable Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, for his strategic guidance, as well as the Chief of Defence Staff and Service Chiefs for their consistent support.

The occasion was graced by representatives of the Chief of Defence Staff, Service Chiefs, Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA), Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), Nigerian Air Force Officers’ Wives Association (NAFOWA), Naval Officers’ Wives Association (NOWA), and Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA), among others.

Highlights of the evening included the presentation of awards to deserving participants and staff of the College, the unveiling of the NDC News Magazine, and presentation of awards.