He also wants our soldiers to speak French

President Goodluck Jonathan on Saturday directed the country’s military to institute a special programme to honour men and women of the armed forces who died in active service.

Jonathan gave the directive at the combined passing-out-parade and commissioning of the 61st regular course and short service course 42 (Army) cadets of the National Defence Academy (NDA) in Kaduna.

President Jonathan presents golden sword to the best graduating cadet

He said that on no account should the nation abandon its citizens who pay the supreme price while serving their fatherland, pointing out the need to keep alive their memories.

“Let me again extend my deepest gratitude and indeed the appreciation of all Nigerians to the men and officers of the Nigerian armed forces for their service to our nation.

“You are out there fighting so that the rest of the country can live in peace. Our nation will not abandon you. On this special occasion, I am directing the Chief of Defence Staff and the Service Chiefs to institute a special programme to honour our men in uniform who lose their lives in active service.

“On no account must our country abandon those who serve her loyally and pay the supreme price. This honour is to ensure that their memory and service live with us and our nation forever.”

Jonathan congratulated the graduating cadets for the successful completion of the five-year training and their commissioning as officers of the armed forces. The newly commissioned officers include 331 in the 61 Regular Course Cadets and 213 in the Short Service Corps 42 (Army) Cadets.

He urged them to be absolutely loyal, disciplined and dedicated in their service to the nation.

Jonathan urged the NDA authorities to make sure that all cadets undergoing training in the institution, with effect from next session, were bilingual especially in English and French.

First set of female cadets, known as Jonathan Queens, lead parade

The ceremony, which coincided with the Golden Jubilee anniversary of the NDA, also featured trooping and presentation of the new national and academy regimental colours of the military.

Three of the graduating cadets who distinguished themselves in academics and rigorous military training received the academy’s Sword of Honour.

The highest award went to Cadet Q. T. Lawal, who emerged the overall best in academics, military subjects, personal qualities and extra-curriculum activities.

Among important dignitaries at the occasion were former military Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, the Gov. Muktar Yero OF Kaduna State, service chiefs and the Acting Inspector general of Police, Mr Suleiman Abba.