Kaduna, Nigeria – The Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) welcomed a new Commandant as Major General JO Ochai assumed the role as the 32nd Commandant on June 26, 2023. This follows the recent deployment of senior officers in the Nigerian Army by the Chief of Army Staff, Major General TA Lagbaja. Major General Ochai takes over from Major General IM Yusuf, who has retired after 33 years of distinguished service.
During the Handing and Taking Over ceremony held at the NDA Headquarters, Major General IM Yusuf expressed gratitude to God for his successful career and fruitful tenure as Commandant of the NDA. He commended the NDA community for their support and urged them to extend the same cooperation to his successor, Major General JO Ochai, whom he described as a highly decorated officer and the right person for the position.
Major General Yusuf highlighted his cordial relationship with Major General Ochai, having worked together in various capacities, including the 7 Division in Maiduguri and the Department of Operations at Army Headquarters in Abuja. He congratulated Major General Ochai on his appointment and wished him a successful tenure.
In his remarks, the newly appointed Commandant, Major General JO Ochai, expressed his gratitude for the privilege to serve and emphasized his primary responsibility towards the cadets and staff development. He praised Major General Yusuf as a remarkable military officer and acknowledged the challenge of filling his shoes. However, Major General Ochai assured everyone that he was well-prepared for the responsibility, thanks to the mentorship and training provided by his predecessor. He also expressed his readiness to learn and improve, recognizing that every appointment presents an opportunity for growth.
During the ceremony, Major General Ochai extended his congratulations to General IM Yusuf on his successful retirement and thanked him for his impressive service to the Nigerian Armed Forces and the nation.
Major General JO Ochai, a distinguished officer of the Nigerian Army Armoured Corps and a member of the 39 Regular Course, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. He has previously served as the Director of Operations at Army Headquarters and as Commandant of the Nigerian Army Armoured School in Bauchi, among other notable appointments.
The Handing and Taking Over ceremony featured significant activities, including the signing of the Handing and Taking Over Notes, the decoration of the new Commandant with NDA insignia, the lowering and hoisting of the flag, and an inspection of the Quarter Guard, among others.
