In a statement issued on Friday and signed by the Academy’s Public Relations Officer, Major Reuben Kovangiya, the NDA described the reports as misleading and said they failed to accurately represent 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.
The Academy explained that Gani was admitted as a member of the 76 Regular Course and officially 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’s training progressed smoothly until he absented himself without authorisation.
“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,” the statement noted.
It added that the Academy followed laid-down administrative procedures immediately after his absence was observed.
“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.
The NDA further disclosed that the cadet was struck off strength seven days later, in line with due administrative processes.
“Seven days after the occurrence, he was struck off strength following due administrative procedures.”
The Academy said investigations were reopened after feedback from the cadet’s parents indicated that his whereabouts could not be determined.
“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.
Rejecting claims that it failed to act, the NDA urged the public to disregard reports suggesting inaction.
“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.
Reiterating its commitment to the welfare of cadets, the Academy stated that it maintains systems to ensure accountability.
It added, “Adequate structures are on ground to ensure every cadet is accounted for through regular stop checks and physical inspections.”
The NDA also described itself as a centre of military and academic excellence, reaffirming its commitment to producing disciplined and loyal officers for the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
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