By Gabriel Ameh
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has restated its unwavering support for the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) in delivering professionally competent and combat-ready officers for the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN).
This was contained in a statement signed by Ehimen Ejodame Air Commodore
Director of Public Relations and Information Nigerian Air Force on 27 November 2025
According to the statement,the assurance was given by the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, during a courtesy visit by the 34th Commandant of the NDA, Major General Oluyemi Olatoye, to the NAF Headquarters on 26 November 2025.
Air Marshal Aneke, who previously served as the Academy’s Deputy Commandant, congratulated Major General Olatoye on his appointment, describing it as a testament to his proven professionalism, dedication, and outstanding service record. He described the visit as both symbolic and significant, recalling how his time at the NDA deepened his appreciation for the Academy’s vital role in shaping military leadership and character.
“The NDA remains the cradle of military professionalism and the foundation upon which the future leadership of the Armed Forces is built,” the CAS said. He emphasized that the Academy plays a central role in producing officers who are mentally resilient, morally grounded, and operationally prepared to defend the nation in an increasingly complex security environment.
Reaffirming the NAF’s readiness to strengthen cooperation, Air Marshal Aneke highlighted the importance of continuous collaboration in training, faculty development, capacity enhancement, and operational exposure. “The Nigerian Air Force will continue to support the NDA to ensure it produces officers fully equipped to contribute meaningfully to national defence,” he assured.
Responding, the NDA Commandant, Major General Olatoye, expressed gratitude for the warm reception and pledged to consolidate the reforms and achievements of his predecessors. He reaffirmed the Academy’s commitment to deepening its collaboration with the Services.
“We remain committed to ensuring that the NDA is globally competitive, academically robust, and strategically aligned with the evolving needs of the Armed Forces,” he stated. Major General Olatoye also highlighted the Academy’s plans to further strengthen its curriculum, leadership development models, and character-building programmes to produce officers who reflect excellence, discipline, and readiness for the demands of modern warfare.
Both leaders expressed confidence that enhanced synergy between the two institutions will strengthen the development of disciplined, competent, and combat-ready officers for the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
Ehimen Ejodame
Air Commodore
Director of Public Relations and Information
Nigerian Air Force
27 November 2025
