Amid viral social media posts, the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) has clarified disciplinary actions involving some cadets, insisting the reports circulating online were not authorised.
In a statement issued on Friday by its Public Relations Officer, Reuben Kovangiya, the academy explained that “Commandant’s Orders” are routine administrative and disciplinary processes used within the military to address misconduct.
The NDA said its attention was drawn to online publications alleging sanctions on cadets following a recent Commandant’s Orders exercise held at its headquarters in Afaka, Kaduna State.
It noted that, as the country’s premier military training institution, it enforces a range of disciplinary measures depending on the gravity of offences, in line with its Cadets’ Handbook on Discipline and Administration. These include confinement, relegation, withdrawal and dismissal.
According to the academy, the recent exercise resulted in the dismissal and withdrawal of some cadets found guilty of various infractions.
However, it stressed that the viral reports detailing the disciplinary outcomes were not authorised and did not originate from the NDA, adding that such publications may have been circulated by individuals seeking attention.
“The academy does not indulge in publicising administrative procedures or unconscionable actions, based on the need to uphold established military ethics, traditions and the principle of confidentiality guiding administrative procedures”, the statement added.
The NDA reaffirmed its commitment to discipline and professionalism, maintaining zero tolerance for misconduct and any breach of established standards.
It also restated its mandate of producing well-trained, morally sound and professionally competent officers for the Armed Forces of Nigeria through rigorous military, academic and character development.
