The National Fire Academy, in collaboration with the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), has officially inducted the 2025/2026 set of postgraduate students for the Disaster Risk Management programme. The ceremony marked another milestone in advancing education and strengthening capacity in Nigeria’s emergency management and disaster response sector.

Representing the Controller General of the Federal Fire Service (FFS), the Commandant of the National Fire Academy, Assistant Controller of Fire (ACF) Peter Umetali, delivered a goodwill message on behalf of the CGF, Dr. Olumode Samuel Adeyemi. He congratulated the newly admitted students and urged them to uphold discipline, commitment, and strict adherence to the academy’s rules and regulations.

ACF Umetali emphasized that the programme provides an excellent opportunity for professional development and intellectual growth, particularly as disaster risks continue to evolve globally. He encouraged the inductees to take full advantage of the training to become agents of change in promoting national safety and resilience.

In his presentation, the Director, Directorate of Linkages and Collaborations, Prof. B.J. Ajibuwa, outlined the academic framework, operational guidelines, and expectations for the programme. He stressed the importance of adhering to academic integrity, research ethics, and examination regulations. Prof. Ajibuwa also revealed that a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the NDA and the FFS is being finalized to strengthen sustainability, inclusivity, and the introduction of higher postgraduate degrees.

Also speaking, the Dean of Postgraduate School, Prof. N.A. David, who represented the Academic Provost, commended the NDA’s commitment to excellence and timely graduation. She reminded the students that the academy places great value on character and learning, warning against plagiarism and other forms of academic misconduct. She urged them to pursue knowledge that addresses real-life challenges through innovation and practical solutions.

The Programme Coordinator, Prof. Oluwole, encouraged the students to maintain discipline, punctuality, and respect throughout their studies. He advised them to seek help whenever necessary and to cultivate a positive attitude that reflects responsibility and integrity.

The collaboration between the Nigerian Defence Academy and the Federal Fire Service, established through a 2018 MoU, continues to produce skilled professionals through the Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) and Master’s Degree (MSc) programmes in Disaster Risk Management. The partnership reflects both institutions’ shared commitment to advancing disaster preparedness and resilience through quality education, research, and skill development.

The induction ceremony concluded with the formal administration of the academic oath, officially admitting the new students into the Nigerian Defence Academy’s postgraduate academic community.