By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Commandant of the National Defence College (NDC), Rear Adm. James Okosun, has charged participants of Course 33 to translate the 44 weeks of intensive training and their hard-earned knowledge into selfless service to the nation.

Okosun, represented by the College Secretary, AVM Ayodele Hanidu, gave the charge on Friday during the special Jumaat service held in honour of the graduating participants in Abuja.

He commended the participants for successfully completing 44 weeks of rigorous academic training in higher defence and strategic management, noting that the process demanded intellectual discipline, sacrifice, and resilience.

“The pressure you have faced here has been by design, to mould you into strategic leaders and policy makers who place the nation above personal interest.

“Beyond seeking knowledge, we carry the responsibility of service and sacrifice for our beloved country, knowing that only Allah knows the time when such sacrifice may be called upon.

“We accept this with full readiness and faith,” he said.

The Commandant reminded the officers that the Qur’an and Hadith enjoin the pursuit of beneficial knowledge  which improves individuals, strengthens communities, uplifts the Ummah, and contributes to a better world.

He also acknowledged the wives of the participants for their steadfast support, describing them as silent pillars of strength throughout the demanding training period.

Speaking on behalf of the graduating officers, Col. Umar Abbas, said the training had tested their resilience, patience, and intellectual capacity, but also reinforced the importance of humility and service.

Abbas noted that while some participants might have achieved all their goals during the course, others might not, adding that both should accept their experiences as part of Allah’s divine decree.

“Please, whatever you have gotten from here, take it as what Allah has decreed for you. It is never the end of life,” he said.

Abbas warned against attributing successes solely to personal effort, stressing that achievements should be seen as blessings from Allah and used to uplift others.

He urged his colleagues to leave the college with “clean minds,” ready to forgive any wrongs committed knowingly or unknowingly during their stay, and to maintain the spirit of brotherhood built over the past year.

“For almost 12 months we have lived and worked together. If at any time we offended anyone, knowingly or unknowingly, please forgive us,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that the Jumaat service marks the beginning of a series of events leading to the graduation of Course 33 participants, scheduled for next week. (NAN)

Edited by Augusta Uchediunor and Yakubu Uba