By Sumaila Ogbaje
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, says the Nigerian Army will in coming months, invest more in modern technology to aid in training and ultimately fight the wars against insecurity.
Oluyede made this known at the closing of the 2024 COAS Annual Conference on Wednesday in Abuja.
He said the conference provided them the opportunity to reflect on issues concerning the administration, training, and operations of the Nigerian army.
“In particular, we deliberated extensively on innovative strategies to confront and ultimately defeat terrorism, banditry, secessionist agitations, and other violent activities that threaten the peace and security of our dear country Nigeria.
“As a follow-up of our deliberations, the Nigerian army will, in the coming months, invest more in modern technology to aid in training and ultimately fight these wars.
“Since training directly influences operational actions, the Army Headquarters will promote realistic and focused training throughout the force and conduct a thorough review of its specialised training and operations to achieve the desired victory,” he said.
The COAS directed that army’s best equipment be posted to its training schools to drive their professional military education and produce well-trained personnel with the requisite skill sets to meet the demands of the current and future operations.
He said it was essential to consolidate the transformation of the Nigerian army towards defeating a well-motivated and combat-ready force that can effectively start its offensive opportunities within a joint and multi-agency environment.
He also promised to drastically reduce the accommodation deficiencies in the army, directing that all ongoing office and accommodation projects be completed speedily and allocated to deserving personnel.
“While new ones are to be initiated to alleviate the shortfall, I look forward to establishing a soldier-first cult across the force by ensuring the proper attention is paid to soldiers’ welfare.
“This is to acknowledge their crucial role as the foundation of the Nigerian army’s strength, operational readiness, and mission success.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event climaxed with the inauguration of Affordable Home Ownership Options for all soldiers at Idu Abuja.
Oluyede said the scheme was a pilot project in an integrated welfare scheme aimed at alleviating the challenges that soldiers faced in securing personal accommodation for post-service life. (NAN)
