On the 20th of May 1954, the Nigerian Military School (NMS) Zaria was founded with a singular vision: to build young boys into leaders, warriors, and patriots. Seventy-one years later, that vision continues to shine brightly through generations of Exboys who have carried the school’s legacy into every sector of national and international life.

As we celebrate the 71st anniversary of this iconic institution, we reflect not just on the passing of time, but on the impact, the transformation, and the future that lies ahead. The anniversary is more than a ceremonial milestone—it is a call to remember, to reconnect, and to reaffirm our commitment to the values that shaped us.

The Origins and Purpose of NMS

NMS was established to provide military and academic education to young boys who would go on to serve in the Nigerian Army and beyond. Over the decades, it has evolved into a prestigious institution known for academic excellence, military discipline, leadership training, and character building. NMS is not just a school—it is a factory of leadership.

A Legacy of Achievements

From senior officers in the armed forces to policymakers, captains of industry, innovators, and public servants, NMS has produced some of Nigeria’s most respected figures. It is this continuous output of excellence that has solidified its place as one of Nigeria’s most valuable institutions.

The 71st anniversary celebrations reflected the school’s ongoing progress:

• Facility upgrades: including the newly commissioned dining hall, cookhouse, and remodeled MRS.
• Foundation Day lectures and regimental parade, honouring the school’s discipline and tradition.
• The Inter-Chapter 5-Aside Football Tournament, fostering brotherhood among Exboys nationwide.

These activities were not merely for fanfare, but a testament to the enduring spirit of the NMS community—past and present.

The Role of the Exboys Association

The NMS Exboys Association continues to play a vital role in mentoring current students, funding school infrastructure, and fostering unity among alumni. In the President’s recent speech, key initiatives were highlighted, including:

• The introduction of an e-ID card solution for Exboys.
• Plans to launch the first-ever Exboys World Convention.
• Direct support to healthcare and nutrition improvements within the school.

The Association stands as a powerful link between the legacy of the past and the promise of the future.

Exboys UK: Our Shared Purpose

As members of the Exboys UK community, we proudly align ourselves with this legacy. Our purpose echoes the mission of the broader Exboys Association to connect, empower, and inspire. Over the years, Exboys UK has:

• Recognised and awarded outstanding Exboys globally.
• Sponsored welfare and educational initiatives.
• Represented Exboys with distinction at events such as the NMS Passing Out Parade.
• Promoted unity across sets and regions in the diaspora.

We remain deeply connected to our roots and committed to playing our part in elevating the legacy of NMS.

A Call to Celebrate and Support

As we honour 71 years of honour, discipline, and excellence, we invite Exboys in the UK and around the world to actively celebrate this moment. Whether through presence at events, digital participation, or continued support for Exboys-led projects, your involvement matters.

Let this celebration reignite our pride in the school that made us. Let it remind us of our duty—to each other, to the generations that follow, and to the enduring ideals of the Nigerian Military School.

Long live NMS. Long live the Exboys Association. Long live the legacy.