Rear Admiral Abdullahi Ahmed Assumes Duty as The 22nd Commandant of National Defence College Nigeria

Rear Admiral Abdullahi Ahmed has taken over as the 22nd Commandant of the National Defence College (NDC), Nigeria, following a formal handing over ceremony today 4 of November 2025, by the immediate past Commandant, Rear Admiral James Okosun.

His appointment follows a large-scale redeployment of 65 senior officers in the Nigerian Navy, aimed at boosting operational efficiency and enhancing maritime security. As Commandant, Rear Admiral Ahmed will oversee advanced leadership training and strategic courses for senior officers. He brings over three decades of experience to his new role, having held various key positions in the Nigerian Navy, including Directing Staff at the National Defence College, Air Force War College, and Armed Forces Command and Staff College.

Some of his notable past roles include:

– Deputy Chief of Defence Space Administration.

– Director of Recruitment, Resettlement, and Reserve at Naval Headquarters.

– Director of Plans at Naval Headquarters.

– Commander, Nigerian Navy Ship PATHFINDER.

– Commander, Naval Unit Abuja.

– 7th Commandant, the Naval War College, Nigeria.

Rear Admiral Ahmed is a Chevening Scholar with a Master’s degree in International Affairs from the University of Ghana and another in International Security Studies from the University of Leicester, UK. In his maiden remarks, Rear Admiral Abdullahi Ahmed commended the outgoing Commandant for his impactful leadership and pledged to build on existing legacies and advance the institution’s strategic mandate.

Rear Admiral A Ahmed expressed appreciation to the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, for the confidence reposed in him, noting that the appointment represents both an honour and a call to greater service.

In his valedictory remarks, the outgone Commandant, Rear Admiral Okosun thanked the College staff and personnel for their dedication and cooperation, which he said were instrumental to the success of his tenure. He highlighted notable reforms achieved under his leadership, including structural improvements and enhanced collaboration with the Centre for Strategic Research and Studies (CSRS).

Rear Admiral Abdullahi’s assumption of duty is expected to further strengthen the NDC’s position as Nigeria’s apex institution for defence and strategic studies, fostering excellence in leadership, research, and national security management.