Command Day Secondary School, Ribadu Cantonment, Kaduna (CDSSK), recently celebrated its 30th anniversary, marking three decades of academic growth, character formation and service to the nation, while recognising dedicated teachers and accomplished alumni.
The school commemorated the milestone with a colourful three-day programme that highlighted its contributions to education and national development since it was founded in 1995.
Activities lined up for the anniversary included sporting events, a “Back to School” peace march, medical outreach, reunion programmes, as well as an awards and gala night, all held under the theme “30 Years of Legacy: One Bond and Command – Strengthening the Present and Shaping the Future.”
The reunion drew alumni from different graduating sets across the country, a development participants described as a significant moment in the school’s history and a reflection of the strong bonds among former students.
Addressing the gathering in Kaduna, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division of the Nigerian Army, Maj.-Gen. Abubakar Wase, congratulated the alumni for maintaining close ties among themselves and with their alma mater.
Represented by Col. Raphael Adom, he praised their support for the school’s development and encouraged current students to uphold the discipline, loyalty and excellence associated with command schools.
The Commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Maj.-Gen. Oluyemi Olatoye, also lauded the alumni and commended the leadership of the Old Students’ Association.
Represented by Grp.-Capt. Ime Akpan, Olatoye reminded students to remain guided by the discipline and values instilled in them at command schools, noting that the NDA plays a key role in Nigeria’s human capital and economic development.
In his keynote address, the guest speaker, Prof. Busara Sakariyau, urged the alumni to sustain the discipline they acquired, live purpose-driven lives, leave positive legacies and remain committed to service in their various communities.
In his remarks, the school Commandant, Lt.-Col. Murtala Marafa, appreciated the old students for reconnecting with their alma mater and supporting its progress over the years.
Marafa explained that the school is focused on preparing students for a promising future, adding that it was encouraging to see graduates of CDSSK excelling in different fields of endeavour.
He encouraged current students to emulate the values and legacy established by the alumni.
The President of the CDSSK Old Students’ Association, Tusse Suleiman, thanked past and present teachers, former commandants, as well as officers and men of the Nigerian Army for their roles in moulding the alumni into responsible leaders.
He acknowledged the school’s pioneer commandant and honoured teachers for their commitment to nurturing professionals and nation builders, stressing that CDSSK has remained faithful to its core values over the past 30 years.
The celebration climaxed with the presentation of awards to distinguished personalities and deserving alumni in recognition of their notable contributions to the growth of the school and the wider society.