Fiji’s Minister for Policing and Communications, Ioane Naivalurua, has urged newly graduated soldiers to place the safety of women, children and communities at the centre of their service, describing their role as ‘guardians of national stability’ as well as military personnel.
Speaking at the 02/25 Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) Basic Recruit Course pass-out parade this month, Naivalurua told the 97 graduates that wearing the uniform carried a responsibility that extended beyond operational duties to discipline, ethical conduct and the protection of the vulnerable.
Drawing on his own 32-year career in the RFMF, the minister said the military had shaped his values, sense of duty and leadership, and praised the recruits for completing the demanding 13-week training programme that transformed them from civilians into soldiers.
Naivalurua stressed the importance of moral strength, accountability and lifelong learning, saying modern soldiers must be able to think critically, communicate effectively and uphold high ethical standards both on and off duty. He pointed to the introduction of the RFMF’s Lead Self Course as a step toward developing adaptable and forward-thinking leaders capable of meeting modern security challenges.
He also reminded the graduates of the legacy they were inheriting, paying tribute to past generations of Fijian service members, from World War II volunteers to fallen heroes such as Corporal Sefanaia Sukanaivalu.
