By Kennedy Sheyin
The National Defence College (NDC) has urged the outgoing course -34 participants to seek moral guidance and maintain spiritual strength in the discharge of national service.
The NDC commandant, Rear Adm. Abdullahi Ahmed, gave the charge on Sunday in Abuja, at the college’s interdenominational church service for graduating course -34 participants.
Ahmed, represented by the Deputy Commandant, Maj.-Gen. Ken Chigbu, said that the need for spiritual strength, support, and moral guidance in the midst of professional and intellectual pursuits could not be over-emphasised.
He also said that faith reminded humanity the importance of humility, compassion, service and dependence on God.
He noted that these were very important attributes that every leader must have in order to be able to discharge their duties fairly and efficiently.
“As leaders, we must never become so confident in our abilities that we forget the need to seek and utilise divine wisdom and spiritual guidance.
“May God grant us the wisdom, courage and selflessness required to make decisions that will promote peace and unity, attain justice and security, and achieve prosperity for all,” he said.
The commandant further urged the participants to continue in their noble commitment to excellence as the college sustained its important role in developing strategic leaders for Nigeria, Africa, and the international community.
“We thank Almighty God for bringing Course-34 to this important milestone and we celebrate the achievement of the participants.
“Above all, we look forward to the contributions that our graduates will make in the years ahead with hope and confidence.
“Their journey at the college was one of intellectual engagement, personal sacrifice, professional development, and shared experiences.
“Over the course of the programme, they were exposed to rigorous academic activities, strategic studies, leadership development, research exercises, and other activities designed to broaden their understanding of national and international security issues.
“They have also had the opportunity to interact, exchange ideas and build relationships across professional, cultural, and national boundaries,” he also said.
Earlier the college Protestant Chaplain, Capt. James Saidu, in his sermon urged the outgoing participants to continue to abide in the faith that had brought them thus far in order to go further.
He also urged them to remain thankful to God in every situation, noting that every circumstance they found themselves was an opportunity to grow and do better.
Saidu admonished them to lead by example and be leaders with high morals and transparency in their distinct places of service after their imminent graduation.(NAN)
Edited by Deborah Coker