At the Nigerian Defence Academy’s (NDA) Combined Passing Out Parade and Commissioning Ceremony held today, 28 September 2024, Officer Cadet PA Olayinka of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) received the prestigious Sword of Honour for the 71 Regular Course. The Sword of Honour is the highest accolade awarded to the best all-round cadet, recognizing excellence in academics, military subjects and personal qualities.

The selection for this award considers academic achievements, military training, leadership, discipline, and integrity. Officer Cadet Olayinka excelled in all areas, standing out as a model of dedication and resilience among his peers, a testament to the rigorous training at the NDA.

Breakdown of the number of the commissioned officer cadets.

71 Regular Course with a total number of 454 officer cadets.

356 Male cadets
98 Female Cadets (Army Cadets – 54
Navy Cadets-13 and Air Force Cadets – 31)

Direct Short Service Course 28 Army with a total number of 211 officer cadets.

Direct Short Service Course 32 Air Force with a total number of 140 officer cadets.

Total commissioned officers were 805 officer Cadets.