November 10, 2025
Maj.-Gen. Oluyemi Olatoye has officially resumed duty as the 34th Commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Kaduna, marking a new phase in the leadership of the nation’s premier military training institution.
Olatoye took over from Maj.-Gen. Ibrahim, who retired from active military service after a distinguished career.
Before his appointment as the NDA Commandant, Olatoye served as the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 82 Division Nigerian Army, Enugu, where he demonstrated exceptional leadership and operational expertise.
In his address, the new NDA Commandant expressed gratitude to God for the privilege to lead such a prestigious institution. He also appreciated the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, for the confidence reposed in him and the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, for his mentorship and guidance.
Olatoye commended the outgoing commandant for his dedication and professionalism, pledging to sustain the academy’s core values and mission.
“I am committed to maintaining and enhancing the academy’s standards while building on the foundation laid by my predecessors,” he said.
He urged the staff and cadets of the academy to work closely with him and offer constructive advice, emphasizing teamwork and collaboration as vital to the NDA’s continued success.
“The academy belongs to all of us, and collaboration is key to achieving its mission,” Olatoye added.
Earlier in his remarks, the outgoing NDA Commandant, Maj.-Gen. Ibrahim, reflected on his six-month tenure, noting achievements in discipline, augmentation, and infrastructure development despite financial constraints.
He attributed the academy’s successes to the dedication of its staff and cadets and appealed for continued support to his successor.
“The mission of the Nigerian Defence Academy remains unchanged, to produce high-quality junior officers for the armed forces,” Ibrahim said.
He also thanked the Chief of Defence Staff and the immediate past Chief of Army Staff for the confidence and opportunity to lead the academy.
As Maj.-Gen. Olatoye assumes command, expectations remain high for sustained excellence and renewed focus on military education, discipline, and leadership development at the NDA. Visit GMTNewsng for more news.
