By Kennedy Sheyin and Sumaila Ogbaje
The 22nd Commandant of the National Defence College (NDC), Rear Adm. Abdullahi Ahmed, on Tuesday assumed office with a pledge to enhance learning conditions, promote strategic thinking, and strengthen academic excellence.
Ahmed took over from Rear Adm. James Okosun, who served as Commandant of the apex military institution since July.
Speaking at the handover ceremony in Abuja, Ahmed expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the college, promising to build on the achievements of his predecessor.
He described his return to the college as “a homecoming,” acknowledging the support of faculty and staff who had contributed to his professional growth.
“I wish to state that I am fully at home, physically, militarily, and spiritually.
“I promise to uphold teamwork, embrace consultation, and maintain an open-door policy that encourages constructive feedback,” he said.
The new Commandant commended Rear Adm. Okosun for his leadership and reforms, assuring that he would consolidate and expand ongoing initiatives aimed at repositioning the college for greater impact.
He also paid tribute to his mentors, including the Provost of the College, noting that integrity, discipline, and fear of God would guide his administration.
Earlier, the outgone Commandant, Rear Adm. Okosun, expressed appreciation for the opportunity to lead the nation’s premier strategic military training institution.
He said his tenure witnessed significant strides in restructuring the college’s academic framework and infrastructure.
“Within the short period, we made notable progress in transforming the College concept, refocusing its branches, and strengthening the Centre for Strategic Research and Studies in line with its core objectives,” he said.
Okosun commended the faculty and staff for their support and professionalism, describing his time at the college as transformative and memorable.
He expressed confidence in the capability and experience of his successor, whom he described as “a competent officer with the requisite knowledge to sustain and expand the progress made.”
“I know him very well, and with his experience as a Commandant of the Naval College, he will make meaningful contributions to the continued growth of the NDC,” he said.
The former Commandant also thanked the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of Naval Staff, the Minister of Defence, and the President for the opportunity to serve.
The ceremony, attended by senior military officers, faculty members and staff, marked a smooth leadership transition and reaffirmed the college’s commitment to training strategic leaders for the Nigerian Armed Forces and allied nations. (NAN)