Cowardice in military eternal disgrace – NDA Commandant

Stories by Musa Umar Bologi
Abuja

The Commandant, Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Maj.-General Mohammed Ibrahim has said that any act of cowardice by any officer of the Nigerian Military is an eternal disgrace.
The Commandant said this during his welcome address at the camp fire night organised to make the end of field training exercise of cadets of NDA course 63, at the NDA Base, Jos, Plateau state.
He said it was better for officers to seek honour than died disgracefully through any act of cowardice, adding that “no death no glory.”
Maj.-General Ibrahim, urged the cadets to emulate the good virtues of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-General Tukur Buratai, whom he described as “a tireless gentleman, and national hero of exemplary conduct.”

“If you want an example of bravery, due diligence, knowledge, able leadership, you see it in the Chief of Army Staff,” he said. “I do not hesitate to commend and recommend him for mentorship and copying to my young cadets. For the cadets, these qualities should be your benchmark. Therefore, emulate this gentleman of good character and fine military officer potentials.”
He said the field exercise was conducted in Jos not for historical reason, but for operational and tactical purposes. He added that the Jos terrain and geography provided a veritable means for molding the cadets, to appreciate the reality on ground and challenges they pose in the cause of military operations.
“For historical reasons this was where most of the generals were molded. These activities we are witness were key to the training of every cadet,” he said.  “It therefore gives me joy and sense of accomplishment to be one of the people to bring back in this environment and also to share this moment of joy in honour of young cadets of the 63 regular courses.”
He thanked the government of Plateau state, and the host community for their tolerance throughout the field exercises.
“We hope when next we come around the same tolerance and privileges will be accorded us,” he said.
He also thanked the Chief of Army Staff for the support to NDA, adding that “If I am to count the ration of support to NDA I will always count the Nigerian Army first. Everything we have, from the weapons we fire to the ambulances we use, all come from the Nigerian Army. We are very grateful.”