NDA Pays Emotional Tribute to Brigadier General Zakari Saidu: “A Problem Solver, A Soldier of Integrity”

The Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) has honoured the memory of late Brigadier General Zakari Ahmadu Saidu with an emotional Special Executive Meeting at the Academy’s Loyalty Hall, Kaduna, on Tuesday, September 9, 2025.

The event, marked by solemn tributes, prayers, and symbolic gestures, drew together military top brass, academic leaders, colleagues, and family members of the fallen officer, who passed away on August 31, 2025, after a distinguished career as the Academy’s TETFUND Desk Officer.

Renowned security analyst and counter-insurgency expert, Zagazola Makama, who first broke the news of the tribute on his official X handle, described the gathering as “a testament to the indelible mark General Saidu left on both the military and academic arms of the NDA.”

A Soldier Remembered for Service and Humanity

Speakers at the memorial painted a portrait of Brigadier General Saidu as more than a soldier: he was a bridge-builder, mentor, and relentless problem solver.

The Dean of the NDA Postgraduate School, Professor David Alahira, and Professor B.J. Ajibuah, Director of Linkages and Collaboration, spoke glowingly of his passion for fostering institutional partnerships and supporting academic development. The Academy Provost, Engineer Professor Isa Garba, highlighted his selfless commitment to administrative excellence.

Senior military colleagues, including the NDA Registrar, Brigadier General O.A. Ogunleye; Director of Administration, Commodore R.T. Oladejo; AFCSC Commandant, Air Vice Marshal H.I. Alhaji; and NDA Deputy Commandant, Air Vice Marshal A. Abdulkadir, each recalled Saidu’s courage, dedication, and leadership.

Commandant’s Tribute: “A Problem Solver”

In a deeply moving tribute, NDA Commandant Major General A.K. Ibrahim, OFR, described the late officer as “a problem solver, a courageous and professional soldier whose quiet strength spoke louder than words.”

He assured the family that the Academy would stand firmly by them, just as it has supported the families of others who made the ultimate sacrifice in service. General Ibrahim also extended gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General O.O. Oluyede, NAM, for the support rendered during Saidu’s illness.

He further praised the AFCSC Commandant, Air Vice Marshal H.I. Alhaji, who represented Saidu’s 41 Regular Course (41RC), for his heartfelt tribute and solidarity with the bereaved family.

Family and Final Farewell

The late general’s son, Abdussamad Saidu, and sister, Aishatu Saidu, represented the family at the ceremony. The gathering observed a minute’s silence, followed by special prayers, a touching video montage of the officer’s career, and the presentation of commemorative souvenirs. A luncheon concluded the solemn event.

The Coordinator of the Nigerian Defence Academy Officers Wives Association (NDAOWA), Hajia Halima Ibrahim, led an entourage in a show of solidarity and compassion for the grieving family.

A Legacy Etched in Honour

A member of the 41 Regular Course and a seasoned armoured officer, Brigadier General Zakari Ahmadu Saidu will be remembered as a dogged, courageous, and dedicated officer who embodied the values of service, loyalty, and resilience.

The commemorative meeting at NDA not only celebrated his contributions but also underscored the deep respect he commanded across Nigeria’s academic and military communities.