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Strengthens Nigeria-Liberia military bond
From Uche Usim
The Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Afaka, Kaduna, at the weekend, joined Liberian citizens in celebrating the country’s 178th Independence Anniversary, further cementing the enduring military and diplomatic ties between the two West African nations.
This was disclosed by Major Mohammed Maidawa, the Public Relations Officer of NDA.
The event, which honoured two Liberian cadets currently undergoing training at the prestigious military institution, was presided over by the Commandant of the NDA, Major General AK Ibrahim.
Addressing guests and senior officers, Major General Ibrahim described Nigeria-Liberia relations as a “model of bilateral and regional collaboration,” citing decades of cooperation in peacekeeping and military capacity building.
“The presence of Liberian cadets here at the NDA is a testament to the strong and mutually beneficial ties between our two nations.
“It also reflects our shared commitment to the ideals of peace, security, and sustainable development across West Africa,” he said.
The Commandant commended the Liberian government’s sustained efforts to consolidate democratic governance and regional stability, while praising the cadets for their discipline and academic excellence.
“Their performance epitomises the spirit of unity and cooperation the NDA strives to promote among allied nations,” he added.
The NDA has, for decades, trained foreign cadets from across Africa as part of Nigeria’s broader diplomatic effort to enhance regional security and strengthen defence capabilities of friendly nations. Liberia has been a longstanding beneficiary of the programme, with many of its officers passing through the Academy before taking up senior roles in the Armed Forces of Liberia.
The celebration ended with a symbolic cake-cutting ceremony, led by Liberian cadet JS Flomo, alongside Major General Ibrahim and other senior officers of the Academy. The gesture, organisers said, reflected the enduring spirit of unity and international friendship shared by Nigeria and Liberia.