Remarks byHis Excellency, President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR
On the
Occasion of the Passing Out Parade of Officer Cadets of the 61 Regular Course and Short Service Course 42 (Army) at the Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna
Saturday 13th September, 2014
PROTOCOLS
1. We are here to celebrate excellence, professionalism and the coming of age of a great national institution. This is the passing-out parade of the 61st Regular Course and Short Service Course 42 (Army) Officer Cadets of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA). The occasion coincides also with the Golden Jubilee Anniversary of this pioneer military university in Africa and on behalf of all Nigerians, I say congratulations to our NDA!
2. On this important golden anniversary, it is befitting to specially acknowledge the esteemed presence of former Head of State and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, General (Dr) Yakubu Gowon GCFR, an elder statesman, father of a united Nigeria and steadfast partner in peace and development. You are welcome sir!
3. This is a unique occasion and I also want to specially congratulate the Academy, the Commandant, and staff and all of you gentlemen officers for your service to our nation. Our aspiration as a people and as a government has remained to build a well-trained, efficient and very effective armed forces that meets our national security objectives. The products and achievements of this academy are in line with this goal.
