CDS unveils NDA Command Centre, other projects in Kaduna
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, on Friday inaugurated four projects at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Kaduna.
The projects inaugurated included the expanded and remodelled RSM Oliver Nzalgana Parade Ground, newly constructed 500-capacity Ashanti Battalion Cadets’ Mess, renovated Ribadu Auditorium and the Nigerian Defence Academy Command Centre.
Oluyede said the projects demonstrated the Nigerian Armed Forces’ commitment to strengthening infrastructure, training, welfare and technological capacity.
He commended the Commandant, officers and staff of the academy for their efforts toward infrastructural and human-capacity development aimed at improving the quality of cadet training.
According to him, the projects reflected the academy’s enduring commitment to excellence in training, welfare, cultural heritage and technological advancement.
The CDS said the parade ground represented more than a venue for formations, drills and military exercises, describing it as a symbol of the traditions of discipline, courage and service upon which the military profession was founded.
He said the 500-capacity cadets’ mess would provide an improved environment for cadets’ welfare, professional interaction and the inculcation of discipline and regimentation.
Oluyede also highlighted the importance of the new command centre, particularly in view of the changing nature of contemporary security challenges and the growing application of technology in defence operations.
He said the Armed Forces must continually adapt to technological advancements, including artificial intelligence and advanced surveillance systems, to enhance situational awareness, timely information processing and response to emerging threats.
“The development of professional and effective armed forces requires sustained attention to training, structure, welfare, discipline and technological innovation,” he said.
He urged the beneficiaries of the facilities to maintain them responsibly and ensure their proper utilisation to guarantee their longevity.
Oluyede also called for accountability, responsible management and continuous improvement in the utilisation of the facilities.
He expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his continued support and commitment to the development of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
He also commended the commanders, staff, contractors, suppliers, security agencies and other stakeholders whose contributions led to the completion of the projects.
Earlier, the Commandant of the NDA, Maj.-Gen. Oluyemi Olatoye, said the projects represented investments in the training, development, welfare and security of cadets and the wider academy community.
Olatoye said the expanded and modernised parade ground would provide an improved environment for ceremonial activities, military drills and other important academy events.
He said the new cadets’ mess would enhance welfare and dining arrangements, while the renovated Ribadu Auditorium would provide an improved platform for academic, professional and institutional engagements.
The Commandant said the auditorium was renovated following a fire outbreak on July 9, 2026.
He said the surveillance command and control centre, equipped with artificial intelligence-enabled closed-circuit television, would strengthen the academy’s security architecture and enhance situational awareness.
According to him, the facility would improve the physical security of cadets, staff and critical infrastructure within the academy.
“These projects are consistent with our broader objective of building an academy that is fit for purpose, innovative, secure and responsive to the demands of contemporary military training and education,” he said.
Olatoye said the academy would continue to create an environment where discipline, character, knowledge, leadership and professional competence could thrive.
He expressed appreciation to the President for his sustained support toward the development of the NDA and strengthening of its capacity to discharge its mandate.
The Commandant said the true value of the infrastructure would ultimately be measured by its contribution to better training, improved welfare, enhanced security and the production of officers capable of providing effective leadership in the Armed Forces.
Never miss a moment! Get the stories shaping Nigeria, delivered straight to your phone. Follow Peoplesdaily Newspaper on WhatsApp for breaking news, exclusive reports, and the headlines everyone will be talking about, before anyone else.
