From Aisha Ibrahim, Kaduna

Ahead of its scheduled combined Passing Out Parade (POP), billed for October 5, 2019, the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) has held its Prize Giving & Beating of the Retreat in honour of Graduating Cadets of 66RC, SSC 45 NA & 67RC (NN&NAF).
The event held at the  NDA Parade Ground, Afaka  on Tuesday September 24, 2019, attracted lots of dignitaries, including Guest of Honour, Chief of Defence Policy and Plans,   Nurudeen A. Balogun and GOC 1 Div, Major General F. Yahaya
The colourful ceremony featured presentation  of trophies to various battalions  and the Overall  Best Batallion, which was won by Mogadishu Battalion  by winning total of 12 trophies.
They include; Cross Country  (Dalet Batallion), Athletics (Abyssina Batalion),  interior economy (Abyssinia  Battalion), obstacle crossing (Mogadishu Battalion), shooting competition  (Mogadishu Battalion) and a host of others.
Similarly, Indian Shield Award was presented to best passing out cadet in common subject related to service. It was received  by best cadets from Army, Navy and Air Force in gold, silver and bronze medals, three from each category.
The event also witnessed the presentation of awards to cadets who distinguished themselves in various sporting activities for male and female categories rrspectively.
Awards were prrsented for sthletics, volleyball, handball, football, basketball badminton, judo, wrestling,  boxing, swimming, cross country and skill at arms.
Sword of Honour was presented to best cadet in short service, Cadet H.P. Yushau.
Wooden Spoon presented to Burma Battalion for winning three, the least number of trophies.

For the first time in history, a live display  of skill at arms was witnessed  at the arena.