COAS Emphasizes the Significance of Democracy

In an inspiring address to Officer Cadets at the Passing Out Parade and Commissioning cum Oath Taking Ceremony for Executive Commission Course 1/2023 in Kaduna, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Nigerian Army, emphasized the crucial role of democracy in Nigeria’s modern era.

The event, which took place on Saturday, August 5, 2023, saw 239 Army Cadets receiving their Presidential Commission.

Addressing the young cadets, Gen Lagbaja underscored the importance of military subordination to the nation’s constituted authority as a means of promoting military professionalism.

He stressed that every Nigerian aspires to witness a flourishing constitutional democratic governance that upholds national values and the interests of all well-meaning citizens, irrespective of their ethnic or religious affiliations.

“The only thing better than democracy for Nigeria is more democracy,” declared the COAS, urging all members of the Nigerian Army to take pride in championing the nation’s flourishing democracy while remaining apolitical in the execution of their constitutional duties.

The COAS reasserted the commitment of the Nigerian Army to safeguarding the security of lives and property across the country. He assured that the Army is diligently working to protect the nation’s territorial integrity and providing support to relevant security agencies to ensure overall safety.

During the ceremony, the 239 Passing Out Cadets, including 12 female and 228 male Cadets, were commissioned to the rank of Lieutenant after three months of intensive military training spanning from May 1 to August 5, 2023. The event also recognized the exceptional performance of three Cadets who emerged as the top achievers. Cadet A Saminu secured the first position in order of merit, followed by Cadet SC Nwokanta in second place, and Cadet OY Yahaya in the third position.

Major General Oluyemi Olatoye, Commandant of the Nigerian Army School of Infantry, expressed his confidence in the newly commissioned officers, emphasizing that they have been equipped with the necessary skills and attributes to serve the nation loyally, courageously, and with dedication.

The ceremony culminated with the presentation of Parchment of Commission to the newly commissioned Officers, marking the beginning of their careers as officers in the Nigerian Army.

In a gesture of solidarity and compassion, following the Commissioning ceremony, the COAS visited officers and soldiers who were wounded in action during operational engagements at the 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital in Kaduna.

The event showcased the Nigerian Army’s commitment to democracy, professionalism, and national security, as it prepares the next generation of officers to serve their country with honor and distinction.