PRIDE OF THE NATION: Nigerian Officer Cadet Awarded the Queen’s Medal in the UK (PHOTO)

15 December, 2013

A Nigerian Officer Cadet, Noel Shekoduza Moses, has been awarded the Queen’s medal for best results in Military, Academic and Practical Studies by the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst.

A 24-year-old officer beat 16 other foreign cadets to receive the medal at the Sovereign Parade for Overseas Cadets in the UK on December 13, 2013, Friday.

Moses was born in Kaduna state and attended the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), gaining a BEng in Civil Engineering. He also attended the counter-terrorist course in Nigeria. He played hockey and participated in orienteering at Sandhurst.

Moses undertook one year course as senior intake at Sandhurst academy.

While talking to the correspondent of the News Agency of Nigeria in Europe the cadet stated he was proud to be a Nigerian and the first overseas cadet to receive the award.

“I have learnt so much from this academy and I will impart the knowledge on others back home”, Moses said.

Maj.-Gen John Ogidi, Nigeria’s Defence Adviser to the UK, said Moses’ award had further buttressed the high standard of education at the nation’s defence academy. He said Nigerians who attended the Royal Academy always performed well and urged others to strive for excellence.

Amb. Oluwatosin Lawal, Nigeria’s Deputy High Commissioner to the UK, commended Moses for the feat.

“It is a moment of joy for Nigeria and shows that we are blessed. This goes beyond military training, we are indeed proud.”

Brig.-Gen. Henry Ayamasaokwei, Registrar of the NDA, said Moses had vindicated the academy “as only the best are sent out”:

“It also shows that the standards at NDA are high. That is why he could achieve this. And I believe this will motivate other cadets at the academy and encourage them to do well. This will also motivate future trainees to strive for excellence”.

Col. Dick Crombie, Staff Officer Cadet at the Royal Academy, said Moses represented the best of Nigeria, “we are proud of him.”

He further assured of continued partnership with Nigeria.

The event attracted dignitaries from the military, the diplomatic corps and families of the cadets.