The Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) has debunked online media reports alleging negligence in the case of missing Cadet Stephen Kubama Gani, clarifying that the institution has been actively handling the matter in line with established military procedures.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Academy’s Public Relations Officer, Major Reuben Kovangiya, described the reports as misleading and assured the public of ongoing investigations into the cadet’s disappearance.
Setting the record straight, the NDA confirmed that Cadet Gani was a member of 76 Regular Course and reported for training on August 26, 2024. However, the Academy noted that the cadet was found to be absent without official permission from April 28, 2025.
The statement read, “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 three days after his absence. Seven days after the occurrence, he was struck off strength following due administrative procedures.”
According to the NDA, feedback later received from Cadet Gani’s parents confirmed that they were also unaware of his whereabouts, prompting a renewed round of investigation by the institution.
“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,” Major Kovangiya added.
The NDA emphasised that its training and cadet administration processes are governed by military law, standard procedures, and a strict code of conduct, dismissing claims that it has not taken the situation seriously.
“The NDA therefore calls on the general public to discountenance the claim that the institution is doing nothing about the cadet’s mysterious disappearance,” the Academy stated.
While reiterating its commitment to the safety of all cadets, the Academy said structures were in place to account for personnel through routine inspections and checks.
“We wish to reiterate that the NDA takes the safety and wellbeing of all its cadets seriously. Adequate structures are on ground to ensure every cadet is accounted for through regular stop checks and physical inspections,” the statement said.
Describing itself as a bastion of military and academic excellence, the NDA reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the values of discipline, honour, and loyalty.
“The Academy continues to uphold the vision of its founding fathers by producing highly trained, dedicated and loyal officers for the Armed Forces of Nigeria,” the statement concluded.
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