On 1 October 2026, the Rwanda Defence Force Command and Staff College (RDF-CSC) fraternity commemorated the 66th Independence Day of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The occasion brought together participants in the Senior Command and Staff Course (SCSC) 15, faculty members, University of Rwanda lecturers, and college staff to celebrate Nigeria's national day.

Colonel Lausanne Ingabire Nsengimana, Course Coordinator of Professional Courses and Head of the Research and Development Department, presided over the ceremony. On behalf of the Deputy Commandant and Chief Instructor (Dy Comdt & CI) and the entire College fraternity, she conveyed heartfelt congratulations to the people of Nigeria on the occasion of their 66th Independence Anniversary. She paid tribute to the Nigerian representatives at the College, Squadron Leader Eleke Onyeka and Major Musa Abubakar Babasaleh.

In her remarks, Colonel Nsengimana highlighted Nigeria's remarkable journey to independence on 1 October 1960 under the leadership of its first Prime Minister, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa. She noted how the nation successfully united more than 250 ethnic groups to achieve self-governance. She further underscored Nigeria's resilience, emphasising its commitment to reconciliation, unity, and national rebuilding in the face of historical challenges.

Addressing the strong partnership between Rwanda and Nigeria, she noted the longstanding, cordial military relations between the two countries. She highlighted the continued exchange of military professionals through training and education programmes, including Rwandan officers attending Nigerian defence institutions and Nigerian officers attending Rwanda's Senior Command and Staff Course. She also recognised the valuable contributions made by both nations as leading troop contributors to United Nations peacekeeping operations, particularly in Darfur.

Conveying the message of the Deputy Commandant and Chief Instructor, Colonel Nsengimana extended sincere congratulations and best wishes to the Government and people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. She wished the nation continued peace, unity, stability, and prosperity as it advances towards greater national development and contributes to the progress of the African continent.

On behalf of the Nigerian contingent at the College, comprising Squadron Leader Eleke Onyeka and Major Musa Abubakar Babasaleh, the officers addressed the gathering and remarked:

“It is a great honour and privilege to stand before the College fraternity as we celebrate the 66th Anniversary of Nigeria's Independence. This occasion reminds us of our resilience, unity, and the collective efforts that have shaped our nation and contributed to the progress of the African continent.

The First of October marks the historic day Nigeria attained independence from colonial rule in 1960 and became a republic in 1963. Nigeria is a nation blessed with rich cultural diversity, a vibrant economy, and resilient people. It is home to more than 250 ethnic groups, each with its own unique traditions, languages, and customs. This diversity, rather than being a source of division, has remained a strength, fostering unity, cooperation, and national development.”

The Nigerian officers further highlighted the cordial, longstanding relations between Nigeria and Rwanda, emphasizing the deep bonds of friendship and cooperation that continue to strengthen ties between the two nations. In their remarks, they urged fellow students to view independence not merely as a historical event, but as an ongoing process of nation-building. They also called for a renewed commitment to the principles of Pan-Africanism, peace, unity, and shared responsibility, stressing African nations' collective obligation to work together toward a secure, prosperous, and sustainable future for the continent.