NDA Commandant Charges Promoted Officers To Embrace Command, Leadership, Management

The Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), has charged the newly promoted officers of the academy to imbibe the core principles of Command, Leadership and Management as foundational pillars for effective military service.
The commandant of the academy, Maj.-Gen. Olatoye Oluyemi, gave the charge in a statement issued by its Public Relations Officer , Maj. Reuben Kovangiya, on Tuesday in Kaduna.
Olatoye gave the charge during an investiture ceremony held in honour of the promoted officers on Monday at the NDA Officers’ Mess Afaka Kaduna.
He said Olatoye congratulated them on their well-deserved elevation, reminding the officers that promotion signified the beginning of higher responsibilities.
He stated that their advancement was a testament to their dedication, consistency, loyalty and adherence to the core values of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
The commandant emphasised the need for a deliberate balance among the three pillars of command, leadership and management, explaining that effective military service required more than the exercise of authority.
He further stressed that excellent character, teamwork, professionalism and sound decision-making remain indispensable qualities for senior military officers.
Olatoye urged the officers to demonstrate leadership through integrity, mentorship and the development of their subordinates, stating that true leaders correct, guide and inspire growth.
He reiterated the importance of effective management in the utilisation of men and resources, encouraging the officers to adopt emotional intelligence, reflected in self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy and social skills, as essential leadership competencies.
Kovangiya said the commandant placed particular emphasis on empathy, describing it as a critical tool for strengthening unity, morale and cohesion within the military environment.
He urged the officers to remain worthy ambassadors of the Nigerian Defence Academy and continue to uphold the enduring ideals of professionalism, discipline, and excellence.
The spokesperson said delivering the vote of thanks on behalf of the newly promoted officers, Brig.-Gen. MA Maina, expressed profound gratitude to the Service Chiefs for finding them worthy to be promoted.
He appreciated the commandant for his exemplary leadership and consistent support.
Maina also acknowledged the guidance of the Deputy Commandant, AVM AK Bello, as well as the mentorship provided by senior officers of the Academy.
He said Maina extended heartfelt appreciation to their families, particularly their spouses, for their sacrifices, encouragement and unwavering support.
He equally thanked principal staff officers, officers, civilian staff, families and well-wishers who graced the ceremony.
Kovangiya disclosed that the officers decorated with their new ranks included Brig-Gen. MA Maina, Commodore MT Suleiman, Captain (NN) OO Kolawole and Lt.-Commander SA Makka.
Others were: Lieut. (NN) AS Ashava and Lieut. (NN) CN Ejike.