Hon. Ziphion Makes History as First State Government Official to Graduate from National Defence College.
Ahiaba Douglas – Abuja
In a remarkable feat that has etched his name in the annals of Nigerian history, Hon. Ziphion Terkop Chrysanthus has become the first and only state government functionary to graduate from the prestigious National Defence College (NDC), setting a new precedent in the institution’s long-standing history.
The National Defence College, located in Abuja, is the apex military training institution for senior officers of the Nigerian Armed Forces. It is also recognized as a Centre of Excellence for strategic-level training in peace support operations. While the NDC primarily serves the military, it also opens its doors to personnel from paramilitary organizations, federal ministries, parastatals, and agencies.
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However, until now, no official representing a state government had ever been admitted—let alone graduated—from the elite institution.
At the recent graduation ceremony of Course 33, held on August 22, 2025, Hon. Ziphion made history by not only completing the rigorous academic and strategic training but doing so with outstanding performance, thereby raising the bar for participation from state-level governance structures.
A native of Plateau State, Chrysanthus currently serves as the Liaison Director for Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) and Security Agencies for the Plateau State Government. He is also a well-known philanthropist and political figure, with a strong track record of community service and youth development.
He is the founder of the Ziphion Chrysanthus Foundation, a non-profit organization that champions humanitarian causes across Nigeria. The foundation is known for its work in healthcare outreach, youth empowerment, education support, and the provision of aid to orphanages and underserved communities.
To celebrate this landmark achievement, Hon. Ziphion hosted a gathering of colleagues, friends, family, and well-wishers at the Nicon Luxury Hotel in Abuja, where heartfelt tributes were paid to his determination and trailblazing success.
In his remarks, Hon. Ziphion expressed deep gratitude to Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State for supporting his admission to the NDC. He also thanked other individuals and institutions who played vital roles in his journey.
“This experience has transformed me into a better version of myself. The quality and intellectual depth of the NDC curriculum are unmatched,” he stated. “I am now better equipped to contribute not just to security and strategic policy-making, but to governance, economic development, and societal progress.”
