Pulse.ng : NDA Officers’ Mess Hosts Wining-Out Ceremony for Outgoing Patron and Deputy Patron

The Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) Officers’ Mess and Golf Club, Afaka, has held a colourful Wining-Out ceremony in honour of its outgoing Patron and Deputy Patron, Major General AK Ibrahim, OFR, and Air Vice Marshal A. Abdulkadir.

The two senior officers, who are set to retire from the Armed Forces of Nigeria after over three decades of distinguished service, were celebrated for their exemplary leadership and significant contributions to the Academy.

The ceremony attracted a distinguished audience comprising senior military officers, civilian staff, and guests from within and outside Kaduna.

It was held as part of activities marking their transition from active service following recent changes in the Nigerian military hierarchy.

In his remarks, Major General Ibrahim, who is the outgoing Commandant of the NDA, urged officers to begin preparing for retirement early and to ensure they bring creativity, vision, and drive to every responsibility they undertake.

He noted that meaningful impact comes from the value one adds while in service.

“It is the energy, the creativity, the innovation, the desire to succeed, the strength, and the vision that you bring to the office that matters,” he said.

Air Vice Marshal Abdulkadir, the outgoing Deputy Commandant and Deputy Patron of the Mess, described his tenure as both a privilege and honour.

He acknowledged that some decisions taken during his administration may have caused discomfort, but emphasized that such decisions were driven by the commitment to maintain standards and improve operational efficiency.

He commended the dedication of NDA personnel, noting that their efforts have strengthened not only the Academy and the Armed Forces but also contributed meaningfully to national development.

Earlier, the President Mess Committee and Director of Military Training, Brigadier General T. Ahmed, praised the outgoing leaders for their impactful stewardship.

He said the officers have left behind enduring legacies and have mentored future leaders who will continue to uphold the ideals of the Academy.

The event featured goodwill remarks, presentation of souvenirs, cultural performances by Igbo and Tiv dance troupes, and musical displays by the NDA Band, which added elegance and entertainment to the occasion.