Following its commitment towards enhancing the teaching of French language in Nigeian Defence Academy (NDA), the French government, through the French embassy in Abuja, on Thursday 25th January 2024 commissioned an ultra-modern French language laboratory at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA).
Commissioning the project at the 40 Regular Course Complex, NDA Afaka, the Defence Attache (DA) French embassy Abuja,Colonel Guillaume Dujon, disclosed that France places a high premium on enhancing the learning of French language as well as boosting French language proficiency across the globe.
He reaffirmed that the French government would continue to provide support towards ensuring the teaching and learning of French language.
Colonel Dujon who further disclosed that the gesture serves to further strengthen bilateral relations between France and Nigeria also noted that France is keen on sustaining mutual ties with Nigeria because of Nigeria’s pivotal position in Africa and its impressive history of supporting peace keeping and peace support operations all over the world.
Also speaking at the event, the Commandant NDA, Major General JO Ochai, commended the French Embassy for their generous support towards the enhancement of the French language programme at the NDA.
He praised the collaborative relationship that exists between the French Embassy in Nigeria and the NDA, noting that it is an extension of the cordial relationship that has existed between France and Nigeria over the decades.
General Ochai praised the commitment of France towards supporting the Nigerian economy through foreign direct investments since Nigeria’s independence in 1960, citing the establishment of Peugeot automobile manufacturing plants and other French investments in the country.
Underlining the importance of French language proficiency, particularly in the Armed Forces, the Commandant noted that proficiency in French language will greatly improve communication and enhance integration between Nigerian troops and troops from francophone counties during multinational operations.
Major General Ochai also used the occasion to thank the French Embassy for its previous donations to NDA and the sponsorship of training, through Alliance Francaise, for some lecturers in the NDA Department of French.
He solicited for an expansion of the programme to make room for more Lecturers and Cadets to benefit from the sponsorship.
The commissioning of the NDA French language laboratory comes on the heels of several interventions by the French embassy in Abuja through its French Language Support Programme.
This has seen NDA benefit from provision of French language teaching aids, equipment and sponsorship of training for French anguage lecturers in NDA.
Among the dignitaries who witnessed the colourful ceremony include the Academy Provost,Principal Staff Officers,Deans of Faculties, academic and non academic Staff as well as cadets.
Also in attendance were the Deputy Defence Attache in charge of French language learning programme, Lieutenant Colonel Rapheal Chauvancy and Air Commodore MA Aileru from Defence Headquarters Abuja.
Highpoints of the event include facilities tour, exchange of souvenirs, group photograph as well as Quarter Guard inspection.
