Abuja: The Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), retired Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa, has urged Nigerians to uphold discipline, loyalty, and resilience in confronting the nation’s challenges. Marwa made the call in Abuja on Saturday night at the 38th anniversary celebration of the Nigerian Military School (NMS) Class of 1982.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Marwa, speaking as a proud alumnus, recalled his own days in Zaria, describing NMS as a crucible where boys were moulded into men with values that have endured a lifetime. He emphasized that at NMS, no distinctions were made based on background, language, or faith, but rather a strong bond of brotherhood and a shared destiny as Nigerians prevailed.
Marwa lauded the Class of 1982 for their significant achievements, including producing two serving Service Chiefs, the Naval Chief, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, and the Air Chief, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar. He called this accomplishment historic and praised the class’s contributions to their alma mater, noting that their projects symbolized gratitude and enduring loyalty.
Highlighting the need for values beyond military prowess, Marwa stated, “Our country today needs more than soldiers with weapons. She needs citizens with character – men and women armed with courage, loyalty, discipline, and resilience.” He congratulated the NMS 82 set on their 38-year milestone and urged them to continue serving, giving back, and inspiring the next generation.
In his remarks, leadership expert and motivational speaker Mr. Fela Durotoye charged members of the NMS Class of 82 to live up to the values of discipline, knowledge, and patriotism that shaped them in Zaria. Durotoye drew parallels between the alumni and Africa’s liberation leaders of the 1940s, who, despite lacking titles or wealth, fought for independence with conviction.
Durotoye emphasized that greatness was not about what one held in their hands, but what they carried in their hearts. He encouraged the alumni to create value and instill values in the next generation, echoing the achievements of Africa’s Great Generation.
President of the NMS 82 Alumni Association, retired Lt.-Cdr. Jim Bent, said the reunion was a celebration of enduring bonds of friendship and reaffirmation of commitment to national service. Bent remarked that the Zaria-based institution moulded boys into men of character, discipline, and resilience, emphasizing the lifelong brotherhood forged at NMS.
He recalled humorous moments from their school days and highlighted the achievements of their set in various fields, including business, government, and the armed forces. Bent reaffirmed the ongoing narrative of the Class of ’82, urging his peers to continue standing up for their nation.
The event drew members from various countries, including the UK, Canada, and South Africa, showcasing the global reach and influence of the NMS alumni.