By Celestine Okafor (Editor-in-Chief/Defence Correspondent)
Members of the 37 Regular Course (RC) of the prestigious Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), on Friday July 23, 2021, paid a courtesy call on the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya, in his office at the Army Headquarters, Abuja.
The visit which was a demonstration of their solidarity with the Army Chief since his assumption of command, happens to be the maiden visit by 37 RC to one of their own following his appointment by President Muhammadu Buhari. They assured him of their unflinching support to the Nigerian Army in the ongoing operations across the theatres.
onWhile delivering his remarks on behalf of other members, the Commander Infantry Corps( CIC), Major General Victor Ezugwu, noted that history was made on the May 27, 2021 when the President, Commander- in- Chief of the Armed Forces, Muhammadu Buhari, appointed Lieutenant General Yahaya as the 22nd COAS.
He further noted that as course mates to the COAS, they were at the Army Headquarters to formally congratulate him on his well deserved appointment and to also reassure him of their unalloyed loyalty and commitment as he leads the NA to greater heights.
Major General Ezugwu further stated that only few members of the 37RC attended the visit in view of COVID-19 restrictions, while a good number joined virtually.
The CIC reassured the Chief of Army Staff that all members of the Course are solidly behind him, as he leads the Nigerian Army. He extolled the leadership qualities of the Chief of Army Staff, which he said dates back to his days in the NDA.
Gen Ezugwu eulogized members of 33-36RC for their exemplary leadership and mentoring during the formative stage of their military career.
Responding, General Yahaya commended his course mates, both serving and retired, for the honour they accorded him, stressing that it was indeed a nostalgic experience to receive them in his office as the COAS. He assured them that the Nigerian Army under his watch would do everything possible to secure the nation from the clutches of criminal elements. He further noted that the Nigerian Army under his command, places high premium on the welfare of personnel.
The highpoint of the visit was the presentation of souvenir to the Chief of Army Staff. NNL.
