By Hosea Parah, Abuja

President Bola Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, emphasized the importance of scientific research and technological innovations at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA).

Speaking at the passing-out parade of cadets in Kaduna, President Tinubu stated that the future of Nigeria relies not only on the bravery of its young patriots but also on the educational curriculum of its warriors and scholars.

To ensure the nation’s security, President Tinubu urged the NDA to receive the necessary support to invest in scientific research, technological innovations, and the development of prototypes and concepts that align with the local content policies of the Federal Government. As a leading institution in the country, the NDA should strive to be a model for the continent by exploring scientific inquiries and turning grand ideas into reality.

President Tinubu congratulated the Commandant and the entire NDA community for upholding their noble tradition and welcomed the new cadets as they join the ranks of the nation’s patriotic heroes.

The passing-out parade featured parades, march pasts, the presentation of prizes to the best graduating cadets, commission conferment, the presentation of parchment of commission, and the administration of the oath of allegiance.

The event was attended by distinguished dignitaries, including Senate President Sen. Godswill Akpabio, Senate Chief Whip Sen. Ali Ndume, Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State, Governor Kefas Agbu of Taraba State, Deputy Governor Umar Kadafur of Borno State, Minister of Defence Alhaji Abubakar Badaru, Minister of State for Defence Alhaji Bello Matawalle, Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Christopher Musa, Chief of Army Staff Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, and Commandant of the NDA Maj.-Gen. John Ochai, among others.