Nigerian Army is being empowered with combat enablers, will remain apolitical, respect human rights- COAS

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, has averred that the Nigerian Army(NA) has recently acquired combat enablers to enhance troops’ effectiveness in the conduct of ongoing operations across the country. He made made the assertion on Wednesday, 27 August 2024, at the Chief Opening Ceremony of the Chief of Army Staff Combined Second and Third Quarters Conference 2024 held at the Council of Chiefs Hall Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

Speaking further, the COAS stated that essential combat enablers such as Mine-Resistance Ambush Protected (MRAP) Vehicles, rifles and ammunition necessary to strengthen troops’ operations across the country have been acquired and are already impacting positively on troops operations against security challenges. “These acquisitions,” he added, “will undoubtedly enhance the effectiveness of troops across various theatres and ultimately firm up the nation’s path to an improved security environment in furtherance of economic prosperity for the nation”.

General Lagbaja noted the desire of President, Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to build a well-equipped, truly professional Army for the nation. This he said, the President has demonstrated through the purchase of combat enablers such as the 2 BELL UH -1 Huey Helicopters and other enablers to conduct a range of missions, including logistics and medical evacuation among other functions for the NA. He disclosed that Nigerian Army pilots are currently undergoing training on these platforms since the Army took delivery of the platforms on 20 June 2024. The COAS reassured that the platforms will soon be fully inducted into the theatres of operation, but however limited to logistic missions.

Pastor Umoh Eno, Governor of Akwa Ibom State, while formally declaring the conference open, commended the progressive restructuring of the Nigerian Army, urging the NA to maintain the trajectory. He urged the Nigerian Army to remain apolitical and continue to operate within the framework of the principles of fundamental human rights and adherence to rules of engagement in its operations.

Governor Eno further espoused the critical role of actionable intelligence and synergy among security agencies in the conduct and success of operations.

He lauded the successes so far achieved by troops of the Nigerian Army and other security agencies across the 6 geopolitical zones, pointing out that the Nigerian Army is a key element of national power and diplomacy. Governor Eno commended the COAS for his sterling and exemplary leadership of the NA. He urged the NA to evolve strategies that would consolidate on its achievements thus far.

Highlight of the event was the presentation of Nigerian Army Group Life Assurance cheques to beneficiaries. The presentation was in fulfillment of one of the pillars of the COAS’ Command Philosophy, which is to promote sound administration through the implementation of adequate welfare for personnel and their families.