By Nkechi Eze
The National Defence College (NDC) on Sunday held a solemn thanksgiving service in Abuja to celebrate the successful completion of its strategic leadership course, with a resounding call on leaders at all levels to embrace responsibility, compassion and sacrifice in the discharge of their duties.
Delivering a thought-provoking sermon on the theme “Responsible Shepherds”, the College Chaplain, Sub Lieutenant Gerald Obi, drew inspiration from Jeremiah 23:1–6 and the Gospel of Mark 6, stressing that leadership is not a privilege meant for a select few, but a responsibility shared by every individual regardless of their position in society.
“All of us are shepherds in one way or another. Whether as parents, children, drivers, or cleaners, we are all leaders with people looking up to us,” he noted.
He outlined five essential attributes of a responsible shepherd: genuine concern and sensitivity to the needs of others, accessibility and approachability, the ability to lead by example, willingness to sacrifice personal comfort, and maintaining a strong relationship with God.
Citing the example of Jesus Christ as the ultimate model of leadership, the Chaplain pointed out that Christ demonstrated compassion, sacrificed His comfort, forgave His enemies and led by practical example rather than rhetoric. “A shepherd who does not listen cannot truly lead. A responsible leader must make sacrifices for those under his care,” he emphasized.
In his remarks at the end of the service, the Commandant of the National Defence College, Rear Admiral James Okosun, expressed profound gratitude to God for the successful culmination of the course and for the safe return of participants from their study tours across Nigeria, Africa and Europe.
Rear Admiral Okosun, who acknowledged the robust support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Service Chiefs and the College faculty in the successful execution of the programme, charged the graduating participants to go forth as responsible strategic leaders and worthy ambassadors of the institution.
“As you go forth, remember you are shepherds over men and women entrusted to your care. Let your leadership reflect responsibility, sacrifice, and compassion,” the Commandant charged.
The service also underscored the significance of spirituality in military leadership, with special prayers offered for the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the College community and the nation at large.
The thanksgiving worship was attended by senior military officers, faculty members, allied participants, invited guests and members of the College community.
