By Sumaila Ogbaje
The Commandant of the National Defence College (NDC), Rear Adm. Olumuyiwa Olotu, has emphasised the role of soft power in addressing conflicts around the world.
Olotu stated this at the College’s Course 33 International Day and Cultural Festival on Saturday in Abuja.
He said the celebration was a shining example of Nigeria’s soft power, promoting peace and friendship around the world.
The commandant expressed delight in the participants’ hard work, including the submission of their dissertations, and praised the college’s efforts in organising the event.
According to him, NDC Nigeria has once again become a melting pot of cultures, saying the 2025 event brought together 23 allied participants from 19 countries, showcasing the power of defence diplomacy and cultural exchange.
“This annual event is a testament to the college’s commitment to fostering global understanding and cooperation.
“The festival, beyond its pageantry, aims to highlight cultural integration as a vital tool in tackling global challenges, especially terrorism,” he said.
Olotu said the college had demonstrated its role as a subtle instrument of defence diplomacy, promoting Nigeria’s interests abroad and building bridges between nations.
He said the event was a fitting finale to the participants’ long-standing exercise, and a celebration of the bonds forged between nations.
He explained that the International Day and Cultural Festival was part of the academic programme for participants of Course 33.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, represented by Amb. Kabir Musa, commended NDC for its role in promoting military diplomacy between Nigeria and the outside world.
Tuggar said the culmination of Module 6 of the college’s academic programme was a testament to the power of cultural exchange in building stronger relationships between nations and institutions.
“As the world grapples with crises, promoting cultural understanding is more crucial than ever.
“It allows us to sit down, appreciate our differences, and work towards peace.
“I commend the college for organising this event, which showcases the beauty of cultural diversity. I congratulate the participants, the institution, and everyone involved in making this programme a success,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the diplomatic community, the Egyptian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mohammed Fouad, commended NDC for academic excellence, saying that Egypt had enjoyed a fruitful partnership with the college over the years.
Fouad said that Egypt anticipated further collaboration between the NDC and Egyptian military institutions.
According to him, the fact that participants from nearly 16 countries were gathered there speaks volumes about the institution’s academic excellence and global reputation.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to engage with you and look forward to future collaborations,” he added. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Yakubu Uba
