NDA denies negligence in case of missing cadet

The missing cadet, Stephen Gani…Photo Credit: Sahara Reporters

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The Nigerian Defence Academy has issued a clarification following reports circulating online alleging that a cadet, Stephen Gani, went missing from the institution without adequate response from authorities.

In a Friday statement released and signed by the Academy Public Relations Officer, Major Reuben Kovangiya, the school said the reports were misleading and did not accurately reflect the circumstances surrounding the cadet’s absence.

“The report alleged that the Cadet mysteriously went missing from the Academy without appropriate actions taken by NDA to ascertain his whereabouts,” the statement partly read.

Providing details, NDA stated that the cadet was admitted into the institution as a member of the 76 Regular Course and resumed training on 26 August 2024.

“Cadet SK Gani was admitted into the Academy as a member of 76 Regular Course and reported for training on 26 August 2024,” the statement said.

According to the NDA, the cadet later absented himself without authorisation, and as an academy, it followed due process after his absence was observed.

“His training progressed without any hitch, but he was observed to have absented himself from the Academy with effect from 28 April 2025 without official permission.

“In accordance with established procedures and extant regulations guiding cadets administration in NDA, his parents were formally notified 3 days after his absence,” the statement said.

It further noted that, “Seven days after the occurrence, he was struck off strength following due administrative procedures.”

The NDA disclosed that it reopened investigations after receiving feedback from the cadet’s parents.

“Meanwhile, feedback received later from his parents, revealed that his whereabouts could not be ascertained and it led to renewed investigative procedure by the Academy which is still ongoing,” the statement read.

The Academy rejected claims that it had failed to act on the matter.

“The NDA therefore calls on the general public to discountenance the claim that the institution is doing nothing about the Cadet’s mysterious disappearance,” it said.

Reaffirming its commitment to cadet welfare, the NDA reiterated that it takes the safety and wellbeing of all its cadets seriously.

It added, “Adequate structures are on ground to ensure every cadet is accounted for through regular stop checks and physical inspections.”

The Academy described itself as a bastion of military and academic excellence, noting that it remains committed to producing highly trained, dedicated and loyal officers for the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

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