Features Story: By Abdul Lauya
In a rare moment of reflection, camaraderie, and national pride, the 18th Regular Course Alumni of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) will converge in Abuja on July 4, 2025, to mark a golden milestone, 50 years since their journey into military service began on the hallowed grounds of NDA Kaduna. More than just a reunion, this event stands as a historic testament to patriotism, leadership, and the enduring legacy of one of the most impactful cohorts in Nigeria’s military history.
The Making of a Legacy
On June 30, 1975, 149 young Nigerians made up of Army, Navy and Air Force Cadets, 74 in the Regular Combatant Course and 75 in the Short Service Course (SS 10), answered the call to serve. These cadets, drawn from every region of the country, converged at NDA, Kaduna, to commence rigorous training built around the Academy’s core mandates: producing disciplined, well-educated, and professionally competent officers for the Nigerian Armed Forces.
Though united by duty, their path was not without sacrifice. The death of Cadet C.O. Okupa during physical training and the tragic losses, especially the 1992 Ejigbo C-130 air crash, etched painful memories into their shared history. Today, only 47 of the original intake remain, a poignant reminder of time’s passage and the cost of service.
Yet, what stands tall above this loss is the indelible impact NDA Course 18 has made, not only within military circles but across Nigeria’s social, spiritual, and political spheres.
A Towering Legacy: General Ihejirika and the NDA Mandate
Perhaps no one epitomizes the NDA’s mandate more than Lt. General Onyeabo Azubuike Ihejirika (rtd), one of the most distinguished members of Course 18. Appointed as Nigeria’s 22nd Chief of Army Staff, General Ihejirika’s leadership was transformative. He revitalized the Army through bold reforms, improved professionalism, and strengthened counterinsurgency operations during some of Nigeria’s most challenging security periods.
He expanded training programs, invested in technological capabilities, and institutionalized capacity-building efforts that reinforced the Army’s role as a bastion of national unity and security. Through his tenure, Course 18’s values, discipline, resilience, and loyalty, found full expression, proving that NDA’s mission was not only alive but evolving.
Royal Dignity and National Harmony: The Sultan of Sokoto
Another towering figure from the Course 18 cadre is His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, the Sultan of Sokoto. A retired Brigadier General, the Sultan has transcended military accomplishments to become a leading voice in interfaith dialogue and national cohesion. As spiritual leader to millions of Nigerian Muslims and a tireless advocate for peace, his presence at the 50th anniversary celebration underscores the unique blend of military discipline and moral authority that Course 18 embodies.
His role in bridging religious divides and championing unity serves as an enduring example of how military values, honour, duty, and service—can extend far beyond the battlefield.
A Visionary Chairman: Air Commodore Oguntuyi
Steering the affairs of the Course 18 Alumni since 2006 is Air Commodore Isaac Olufemi Oguntuyi (rtd), mni, whose leadership has been nothing short of exemplary. Through his steadfast commitment, the alumni association has grown into a structured, visionary body that not only fosters unity among members but also preserves the ethos of the NDA.
Air Cdre Oguntuyi’s leadership is marked by inclusiveness, organization, and foresight. Under his guidance, Course 18 has emerged as a model for other regular courses. From coordinating welfare initiatives to championing the remembrance of fallen comrades and organizing this historic golden jubilee, he has proven himself to be an indefatigable force and custodian of legacy.
His ability to bring together personalities of such diverse backgrounds, including a Sultan and a former Chief of Army Staff—into one cohesive alumni body is a masterclass in leadership, diplomacy, and loyalty to a common purpose.
A Golden Jubilee of Meaning
The 50th anniversary celebration, billed for July 4, 2025, at the Army Headquarters Command Mess, Asokoro, Abuja, is more than a ceremonial gathering. It is a national event that highlights what can be achieved through unity, sacrifice, and sustained leadership. With two iconic figures, the Sultan of Sokoto and General Ihejirika, gracing the event under the able coordination of Air Commodore Oguntuyi, the Course 18 reunion will serve as a mirror to the nation on how institutions can live up to their founding ideals.
As Nigeria continues to grapple with challenges to security and unity, the story of NDA Course 18 offers a ray of hope. It reminds us that from humble beginnings, guided by discipline and service, a cohort of young men can grow to shape a nation.
