The Nigerian Army recently organized a seminar on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) for soldiers and officers of the 8 Division, Sokoto. The seminar, held by the Army Headquarters Department of Transformation and Innovation, aimed to address the prevalent cases of PTSD among troops resulting from their engagement in various operations within and outside the country. The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Faruk Yahaya, represented by the General Officer Command, emphasized that the operations exert significant pressure on the troops, resulting in high casualty rates, injuries, damage to equipment, and accumulated stress, leading to mental disorders such as PTSD.
The COAS believes that raising awareness is the first step in addressing PTSD among troops. The seminar is in line with the command’s philosophy of prioritizing the Nigerian soldier. Phase two of the seminar will focus on PTSD awareness and management campaigns in various operational theatres.
Maj.-Gen. Zakari Abubakar, the Chief of Transformation and Innovation, said the purpose of the seminar was to create awareness of the increasing incidences of Acute Stress Reaction, Acute Stress Disorder, and PTSD amongst troops and its effects on military operations. The Nigerian army intends to draw awareness of commanders to the stress syndrome to achieve reduced operational risks, increased efficiency, and improved operational effectiveness.
The seminar provided the necessary opportunity for commanders to interact, discuss, share ideas, and engage in non-pharmaceutical discussions on global best practices for managing PTSD cases. The COAS commended the officers and soldiers for their loyalty and performance and promised to continue providing the resources and direction required for them to succeed