Emir of Zazzau Hails New NDA Commandant: “NDA is Lucky to Have You”

Zaria, Kaduna State – In a significant display of cooperation between traditional institutions and military leadership, Major General AK Ibrahim, OFR, the newly appointed Commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), paid a courtesy visit to His Highness Alhaji Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli CFR, the Emir of Zazzau, at his palace in Zaria on Wednesday, May 28, 2025.

Major General Ibrahim’s visit served to formally announce his assumption of duty as Commandant, following recent redeployments within the Nigerian Army. He underscored the NDA’s vital mission of training officers for the armed forces of Nigeria and allied African nations, a role the Academy has fulfilled for over six decades since its establishment to meet post-independence Nigeria’s growing demand for military leadership. The Commandant emphasized the crucial role of partnerships with traditional rulers and other stakeholders in fostering both economic development and national security.

During the visit, Major General Ibrahim extended an invitation to the Emir to deliver a keynote address at an upcoming Leadership Seminar dedicated to the legacy of the legendary Queen Amina of Zazzau. He also formally invited the Emir to attend the Passing Out Parade (POP) for the 72 Regular Course (RC) Cadets, scheduled for September 2025, as the royal father of the day. Concluding his remarks, Major General Ibrahim wished the Emir a long and stable reign, good health, and reiterated the armed forces’ unwavering commitment to maintaining peace and stability within the Emirate and beyond.

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Responding to the Commandant, the Emir of Zazzau fondly recalled his school days at Government College Kaduna, drawing parallels between the discipline instilled at the NDA and its positive influence on students in his own college. “I recall those days; the standard of discipline in the NDA was being replicated in our college, making us beneficiaries of good military traditions,” His Highness remarked.

The Emir expressed his strong conviction in Major General Ibrahim’s leadership, stating, “Judging from your antecedents, the NDA is lucky to have you as Commandant.” He also revealed ongoing efforts at the palace to meticulously harmonize historical literature with unwritten accounts concerning Queen Amina, aiming to provide a comprehensive and accurate historical perspective of the iconic warrior queen. The Emir affirmed his commitment to the NDA and assured the Commandant of his attendance at the 72 RC POP.

The visit culminated with the signing of the palace visitor’s book and the exchange of souvenirs. Accompanying the NDA Commandant were several high-ranking dignitaries, including Major General AB Mohammed, the Commandant, Depot Nigerian Army; Professor Isa Garba, Academy Provost; Commodore ST Lengaya, Director of Coordination; Air Commodore SA Buhari, Director of Logistics; Colonel MS Jafar, Chief Instructor Army Wing; and Lieutenant Colonel OD Oyelakin, the Academy Adjutant. The event was witnessed by members of the Zazzau Emirate Council, district heads, and palace staff, ensuring a successful and productive engagement.