Commander of the Air Force, Lieutenant General Charles Okidi, has urged graduating officer cadets to practice patience, discipline, and unwavering integrity as they transition into active leadership roles within the military.
Lt. Gen. Okidi delivered the address during a lecture of opportunity at the Uganda Military Academy, Kabamba.
He represented the Chief of Defence Forces and Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba.
Speaking under the theme “The Long March of a Flying Commander,” Lt. Gen. Okidi drew upon his 36-year military aviation career to mentor the recruits on professional endurance and command responsibility.
He told the trainees that military service is a national duty rather than an avenue for conventional employment.
“Joining the force is a calling, not a job. If you joined looking for a job, then you are lost,” Lt. Gen. Okidi said.
Reflecting on his progression as an aviator, he shared insights from captaining four different aircraft types, including piloting the Presidential jet.
He advised the upcoming officers to refine their technical competence, maintain sound judgment, and uphold strict personal accountability under command pressure.
He further cautioned the cohort against competitive career anxiety and an obsession with military hierarchy.
“Be patient, be focused. Do not despair or become frustrated. God’s timing is the best. Do not think about the ranks,” he advised.
A total of 278 officer cadets will undergo formal commissioning next week to enter the Officer Corps of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces.
