Lt Gen Okidi urges UPDF Officer cadets to embrace Discipline, Patience and Integrity

By Our Reporter

The Commander of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) Air Force, Lieutenant General Charles Okidi, has urged officer cadets to embrace patience, discipline, professional competence and integrity as they prepare for commissioning and greater responsibilities in the military.

Lt Gen Okidi made the call while delivering a lecture of opportunity on behalf of the Chief of Defence Forces and Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, at the Uganda Military Academy, Kabamba.

Speaking under the theme “The Long March of a Flying Commander,” Okidi drew on his 36 years of military service to emphasise that career progression requires dedication, endurance, professional growth and a strong sense of duty.

He reflected on his journey as a military pilot, highlighting the importance of combining technical expertise with discipline and the demands of serving in the armed forces.

The Air Force commander described military service as a calling that demands commitment beyond the pursuit of employment, urging the cadets to appreciate the responsibilities that come with wearing the uniform.

“Joining the force is a calling, not a job. If you joined looking for a job, then you are lost,” he said.

Lt Gen Okidi recounted his pilot training and experience flying four different types of aircraft as a captain, including aircraft used to transport the President.

Drawing lessons from his career, he challenged the cadets to build professional competence, exercise sound judgement and remain accountable as they progress through the military ranks.

He cautioned them against becoming overly preoccupied with promotions or comparing their career progress with that of their colleagues, stressing that success in the military requires patience, focus and dedication to assigned duties.

“Be patient, be focused. Do not despair or become frustrated. God’s timing is the best. Do not think about the ranks,” he advised.

Okidi’s message underscored the importance of allowing professional performance, discipline and commitment to guide career development rather than making rank advancement the primary motivation for service.

The lecture comes as 278 officer cadets prepare to be commissioned next week, marking their transition into the Officer Corps of the UPDF and the beginning of their careers as commissioned officers.

As they approach this milestone, the cadets are expected to carry forward the values of discipline, integrity, competence and accountability in fulfilling their duties to the force and the country.