The Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) has publicly addressed the controversy surrounding the disappearance of Cadet Stephen Gani, confirming that he has been missing since late April 2025 but insisting that proper procedures were followed after his unexplained absence. In a statement issued by the Academy’s Public Relations Officer, Major Reuben Kovangiya, the institution described reports alleging inaction as misleading and urged the public to disregard claims that it failed to act on the matter.
According to the NDA, Gani was admitted as part of the 76 Regular Course and officially began training on August 26, 2024. His training reportedly proceeded smoothly until he was observed to have absented himself without authorisation on April 28, 2025. The Academy said it immediately activated established administrative procedures, formally notifying the cadet’s parents three days after his absence was noted. Seven days later, Gani was officially struck off the Academy’s strength in line with its regulations.
The NDA further stated that when the parents later informed the institution that they could not ascertain their son’s whereabouts, investigative efforts were reopened and are ongoing. The Academy emphasized that systems are in place to ensure all cadets are accounted for through regular checks and physical inspections, underscoring its commitment to cadet welfare and the rule of military regulations.
Stephen Gani’s family has expressed deep anguish over the lack of concrete answers in the months since his disappearance, saying that his last communication was in April 2025, shortly after returning from a holiday. Efforts by the family to get clarity and formal documentation from authorities have so far yielded limited public information, adding to the emotional strain they have described in the absence of definitive closure.
