By Nkechi Eze
In a solemn and dignified ceremony held at the National Defence College (NDC) in Abuja, Rear Admiral Olumuyiwa Oluto officially handed over the mantle of leadership to Rear Admiral James Ohimai Okosun, marking the latter’s appointment as the 21st Commandant of Nigeria’s premier institution for strategic military training and national security studies.
The transition of command, which took place amidst the presence of senior officers, former commandants, representatives from the Presidency, the College Advocacy Council, and other distinguished guests, underscored the continuity and institutional strength that the National Defence College embodies in shaping Nigeria’s strategic defence leadership.
Established in 1992, the National Defence College serves as the apex training institution for military officers and senior executives in the public and private sectors, equipping them with the intellectual tools necessary for national policy formulation and strategic leadership. It remains a vital pillar in Nigeria’s defence architecture and a respected centre for regional and international security cooperation.
Rear Admiral Olumuyiwa Olotu, who assumed office in early 2022, bowed out of his role after what he described as “a fulfilling journey marked by teamwork, dedication, and a collective pursuit of excellence.” Reflecting on his tenure, the outgoing commandant said, “In the past two and a half years, I’ve had the privilege to work with men and women of high integrity and intellectual capacity to chart a path for the College, keeping in mind its national significance.”
He emphasized the efforts made under his leadership to sustain the founding ideals of the institution while strengthening officer training, institutional discipline, and the visibility of the College both locally and internationally. Among notable achievements, he pointed to the establishment of the Advocacy Council and various reforms that enhanced academic and operational efficiency at the College.
Rear Admiral Olotu extended appreciation to the College community, past commandants, the Nigerian Armed Forces, and the federal government for the support his administration enjoyed. “It’s not about me, it’s about us,” he said, in a tone that reflected humility and pride. “Several initiatives laid down during our time are now bearing fruit, and I’m confident that the College is on a firm footing.”
In his inaugural remarks as the new commandant, Rear Admiral James Ohimai Okosun expressed deep appreciation for the trust reposed in him and pledged to build on the legacy of his predecessor. “We appreciate the transformation efforts of Rear Admiral Olotu, particularly the establishment of the Advocacy Council and other initiatives that elevated the College,” he stated. “We must all work as a team to move the College to greater heights and continue to support national security objectives.”
Rear Admiral Okosun called for unity, professionalism, and commitment among the College community, assuring them of inclusive leadership, academic rigour, and a renewed push to reinforce the College’s national and international relevance.
A seasoned naval officer and Fellow of the National Defence College, Rear Admiral James Ohimai Okosun brings to the role a wealth of experience and strategic insight. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering and a Master’s in Project Management, and he is a member of both the Nigeria Society of Engineers and the Nigeria Institute of Management. Before his appointment, he served as Commander of the Manjulani Institute of Technology and held various high-impact positions, including Director of Studies at the NDC.
His appointment is widely seen as a continuation of the College’s trajectory of excellence, with stakeholders confident in his ability to deepen its academic and operational strength in line with evolving global security dynamics.
The seamless change of command ceremony was a fitting tribute to military tradition, intellectual excellence, and the enduring spirit of national service that defines the National Defence College. As Rear Admiral Okosun takes the helm, expectations are high for sustained progress, strategic innovation, and a reaffirmation of the College’s vital role in Nigeria’s security architecture.
