NDC Commandant Urges Senior Officers on Strategic Policy Implementation

The Commandant of the National Defence College (NDC) Nigeria, Rear Admiral Abdullahi Ahmed, has called on senior military officers and heads of strategic government agencies to prioritize rigorous standards in policy formulation and execution to bolster national security. Rear Admiral Ahmed gave the charge during the opening ceremony of the Policy Formulation, Analysis, and Implementation Capstone Course for NDC Course 34 participants.

Strengthening National Security Through Policy

The Commandant described the Capstone Course as a “critical component” of the NDC curriculum. He noted that the program is specifically designed to equip commanders and senior officials with the analytical tools necessary to develop policies that address the evolving security landscape of the nation.

“These skills are essential to analyze and develop effective implementation strategies that will enhance national security and the defense of our country,” Rear Admiral Ahmed stated.

Key Pillars of the Course

The 4-day intensive program focuses on five pillars of governance:

• Formulation: Crafting data-driven policy frameworks.
• Analysis: Identifying potential impacts and risks.
• Implementation: Executing plans with precision.
• Monitoring & Evaluation: Ensuring accountability and measurable results.

The Commandant emphasized that addressing Nigeria’s complex challenges requires not just strategic thinking, but a high level of collaboration, coordination, and communication among all stakeholders.

Call to Action

Rear Admiral Ahmed urged participants to:

• Think Innovatively: Develop creative solutions to complex, multi-dimensional problems.
• Collaborate: Utilize the networks gained during the course to foster inter-agency synergy.
• Apply Knowledge: Translate classroom theories into practical applications within their respective services and agencies.

The opening ceremony featured a foundational lecture titled “Foundations of Policy and Development,” delivered by Air Vice Marshal Ndatsu Umaru (Rtd).

The Commandant expressed his gratitude to the Chief of Defence Staff, Service Chiefs, and Heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) for their commitment to human capital development through their participation in the program.