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 emphasized that these projects showcased the Nigerian Armed Forces’ commitment to enhancing infrastructure, training, welfare, and technological capacity.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Oluyede praised the Commandant, officers, and staff of the academy for their contributions to infrastructural and human-capacity development, aimed at improving the quality of cadet training. He noted that the projects reflected the academy’s enduring commitment to excellence in training, welfare, cultural heritage, and technological advancement. The CDS highlighted the parade ground as a symbol of discipline, courage, and service, foundational principles of the military profession.
Oluyede stressed the significance of the 500-capacity cadets’ mess in providing an improved environment for welfare, professional interaction, and the inculcation of discipline and regimentation. Additionally, he underscored the importance of the new command centre, particularly in addressing contemporary security challenges and the integration of technology in defence operations. He emphasized the necessity for the Armed Forces to adapt to technological advancements, including artificial intelligence and advanced surveillance systems, to enhance situational awareness and timely response to emerging threats.
He urged the beneficiaries to maintain the facilities responsibly and ensure proper utilization to guarantee their longevity. Oluyede also called for accountability, responsible management, and continuous improvement in the usage of the facilities. He expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his ongoing support and commitment to the development of Nigeria’s Armed Forces and commended all stakeholders involved in the completion of the projects.
Earlier, the Commandant of the NDA, Maj.-Gen. Oluyemi Olatoye, remarked that the projects represented investments in cadet training, development, welfare, and security. Olatoye highlighted that the modernised parade ground would provide an improved setting for ceremonial activities, military drills, and significant academy events. He noted that the new cadets’ mess would enhance welfare and dining arrangements, while the renovated Ribadu Auditorium would serve as a platform for academic, professional, and institutional engagements. The auditorium was renovated following a fire outbreak on July 9, 2026.
He further explained that the surveillance command and control centre, equipped with artificial intelligence-enabled closed-circuit television, would bolster the academy’s security architecture and enhance situational awareness, thereby improving the physical security of cadets, staff, and critical infrastructure. Olatoye emphasized the broader objective of building an academy that is fit for purpose, innovative, secure, and responsive to contemporary military training and education demands. He expressed appreciation to the President for his support in developing the NDA and strengthening its capacity to fulfill its mandate.