Members of the 47th Regular Course of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), have reunited after 30 years since they left the academy.
The reunion activities, which commenced in Abuja on Friday with special Jumat prayers, also featured a health walk, sporting activities and dinner on Saturday and ended on Sunday with thanksgiving service.
The health walk had members of the RC who are mainly serving officers of the Nigerian Army, Navy and Air Force and their spouses, in attendance.
Among members of the course is the Director-General of the National Youths Service Corps, Brig.-Gen. Olakunle Nafiu and the Naval Spokesperson, Commodore Aiwuyor Adams-Aliu, among others.
Speaking to newsmen, Chairman, Central Organising Committee, Commodore Ahmad Madawaki, said the reunion was a long-awaited moment for the course, bringing together colleagues, families and friends.
“We have looked forward to this for many years, and to the glory of God, it has become possible this year. It is heartwarming to see colleagues, families and spouses gathered together.
“Even though we have lost some colleagues over the years, their memories remain with us as we celebrate,” the senior military officer said shortly after the health walk that was held at Aguiyi Ironsi Cantonment.
Madawaki wished the course continued success, good health, more promotions, long life and stronger unity, adding that the reunion was an opportunity to renew bonds and celebrate achievements.
At the dinner, the president of 47 RC and Director-General of NYSC, Brig.-Gen. Nafiu said the reunion reminded them of where they began and who they truly are.
The dinner brought together serving and retired officers, spouses and dignitaries across the country.
Speaking, Nafiu said the story of the 47 Regular Course was not merely a chapter in the history of the NDA and the armed forces but a living testimony of resilience, sacrifice, and service.
He remembered their fallen colleagues and urged those alive to remember that reunion was never just about the past but also about the future.
According to him, the future of the 47 Regular Course will be defined, not only by the history they have made, but by the choices they make now to stay together, support one another, and channel their collective strength into something bigger than themselves.
He urged them to harness strength, build lasting bridges of mentorship for the next generation, be a refuge for one another in times of need, and leave footprints so clear in their communities.
On his part at the dinner, former Chief of Defence Staff, Air Marshal Al-Amin Dagash (Rtrd), said there is a need for a new culture of practical and principled leadership among military officers to address Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.
Dagash, also a former commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) said the complexity of today’s threats required officers to demonstrate leadership that is hands-on, adaptable and inspiring.
The retired top military chief stated this in Abuja Saturday night during the 30th Anniversary and Reunion Dinner of members of NDA 47th Regular Course.
“In this age of multifaceted national and global challenges, Nigeria needs leaders who do more than command.
“We need mentors who can inspire confidence, share lessons of experience, and guide the next generation with integrity and courage,” he said.
He hailed the 47th Regular Course for conceiving the reunion as a platform for solidarity, honouring fallen colleagues, supporting widows and less-privileged members.
Dagash described such gestures as the highest ideals of comradeship and humanity, while underscoring the role of families in sustaining officers through their careers.
