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Tag: Chief of Defence Staff

  • IEDs informants our biggest challenges in terrorism battle, says CDS

    The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has said that the increasing use of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) by terrorists, as well as the support provided to them by informants, are significant obstacles in the fight against terrorism in the country.

    General Musa said this on Tuesday, November 26, at a two-day symposium on Security and Justice for the military and security agencies organized by the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Abuja.

    The CDS said that the country’s security challenges could better be addressed by ensuring that every citizen has a sense of belonging.

    He said: “All the challenges we are facing today have to do with justice, securing peace, ensuring justice, protection, conduct, and accountability. There will not be peace if there is no fairness, equity, and justice anywhere in any society. So I’m happy this has been brought here, and I’m sure the discussions will bring out the relevance of these issues that we will tackle.

    “Nigeria is going through so many challenges, and I feel we will be able to address this if everybody feels a sense of belonging, a lot of the security challenges we are having, I am sure, will go down.

    “For us in the Armed Forces during our operations, the challenges we are facing, IEDs. IEDs have been the major challenge since the beginning of the insurgency. So we are looking at aspects of how we handle this, what solutions, and what new things can we do.

    “Because you have to be creative. To fight this insurgency, you have to be creative and innovative every day. Because they are not relenting.

    “The issue of Informants. We have to look at how we tackle this issue of informants. Because these are the people who have created the issue.

    “Those supporting the terrorists by giving them logistics, we have to look for the oxygen. Where is the funding? How are they getting the logistics across? As the theatre commander in the Northeast, we found out that if we are able to deny them this logistics, this oxygen, they will not survive. We did that, and that’s why you have almost 200,000 that have surrendered.

    “So, I think if we replicate that all over, we will have very good results. It is also very important that we work together as a team. All security agencies.”

    General Musa emphasized the strategy of all of society’s approaches to end terrorism and violent extremism in the country.

    He said: “We cannot do it alone without the public. So the citizens must be sensitized, and that comes about the issue of strategic communication.

    “I have observed that with asymmetrical challenges we are facing if you don’t communicate, you might be doing the right thing, but the perception might be different. And the enemy is working on that. So it’s important that we get that part of that.

    “And we cannot work in isolation as a country. We need our international partners working together with us. Our neighbours are also very relevant to us.”

    Earlier in his opening remarks, the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, said the symposium was a vital platform for dialogue and collaboration among security and justice institutions with the objective “to delve into the successes, challenges, and opportunities for growth within the realms of security and justice.”

    According to the NSA, the symposium would provide an avenue to review and map existing frameworks, evaluate institutional practices, establish collaborative mechanisms, and chart a course towards a safer and more just society for all.

    Ribadu said: “As we embark on this journey of critical analysis and discussion, let us keep in mind the noble goals set before us, from analyzing and strengthening the intricate relationship between military operations and law enforcement to enhancing the protection of civilians (very important) and fostering a culture of justice and accountability to promoting a unified approach in countering improvised explosive devices.

    “Each objective is poised to make a significant impact. Our intended achievements are ambitious, of course, yet entirely within our reach.”

    Read Also: Ondo 2024: CDS assures parties of impartiality

    The British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, emphasized that security challenges in Nigeria and across the African continent are complex and, hence require a multifaceted approach.

    He commended the leadership of Nigeria for prioritizing both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches in fighting terrorism.

    He said: “This symposium was part of a security and defence partnership that was first initiated some years ago but was renewed under the National Security Adviser leadership in February this year.

    “I think we have had a good dialogue on the fact that we all face complex security challenges in many parts of the world, certainly in the West Africa region and even in Nigeria. And these complex challenges require a multifaceted approach.

    “I am really delighted to hear General Musa, talk about the nexus between civil and military collaboration, between kinetic and non-kinetic action, and this is an area where we have seen some really important lessons for us emerge from the Nigerian security architecture and from Nigeria’s leadership today, and it’s inspiring to be working along with them.”

  • CDS reaffirms synergy with traditional institution for national stability 

    The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has reaffirmed the military’s commitment to collaborating with traditional institutions for national stability. 

    He said the partnership was crucial as traditional institutions possess valuable insights into local dynamics and community relationships, essential for promoting peace and security.

    General Musa said this when he received the Dein of Agbor Kingdom, Dein Keagborekuzi Benjamin Gbenoba 1, at the Defence Headquarters, Abuja.

    The CDS described the traditional rulers as vanguards for national stability, emphasizing its crucial role in national unity and stability.

    Read Also: CDS, IG hailed over rescue of journalists

     He thanked the First Class Chief for finding time to visit him in his office, and assured him of the military’s readiness to protect the nation’s territorial integrity to ensure peace and stability.

    The CDS maintained that the military was willing to address all forms of insecurity in the country. 

    Earlier in his remarks, the Dein of Agbor thanked the military for its dedication and “great services” to the nation and beyond. 

    He commended the sacrifices by members of the military, and thanked the CDS for “accepting the apology tendered by the people of Okouma over the killing of military personnel” in March, 2024.

    He described the military as the “pinnacle of the nation”, and thanked the members of the Armed Forces for protecting the country from all forms of adversaries. 

  • Arewa youth condemns call for suspension of Chief of Defence Staff

    Arewa youth condemns call for suspension of Chief of Defence Staff

    Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL) has condemned call by some northern groups for the suspension of General CG MUSA, the Chiefs of Defence Staff and other appointees in the security architecture.

    A statement signed by Amb. Abdul Danbature, the spokesperson for the Arewa Youth Parliament, emphasized that the call made by the groups was unpatriotic and entirely in bad faith.

    The statement further noted that the group advocating for the suspension is allegedly sponsored by agents with malicious intent, aiming to undermine the efforts of the Nigerian Armed Forces diligently working to restore order to the country.

    Read Also: Arewa Forum rejects planned WAEC CBT exams

    The group said: “They are paid agents and their views on national matters cannot be taken seriously. The Armed forces under the leadership of General C. G. Musa, OFR, Chief of Defence Staff have been tackling security challenges in the country. Notorious criminals and armed bandits have been arrested all over. Calling for his sack or suspension is needless, unpatriotic and not necessary.” 

    “The Arewa Youth Parliament for Good Leadership will continue to identify and lend unwavering support to any Nigerian in Leadership position who is making positive marks in their given assignments

    “President Ahmed Bola Tinubu has acknowledged the effort of C.G Musa and his team in combating insecurity in the country. Security in every civilization is everyone’s business. Therefore, all hands must be on deck to rid Nigeria of insecurity.

    “The Nigerian Armed Forces deserve the encouragement of all Nigerians to encourage all personnel to do more for the nation.  The call for his suspension does not arise given his invaluable efforts in protecting and securing the territorial integrity of the Nigerian state.”

  • Chief of Defence Staff seeks special funds for wounded soldiers

    Chief of Defence Staff seeks special funds for wounded soldiers

    The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, has appealed for a special fund for soldiers wounded during various military operations across the country, saying such a fund would allow proper treatment and care for soldiers wounded in action.

    The CDS said this in his welcome address when he played host to the Minister of Defence, Muhammad Badaru, and the Minister of State, Bello Matawalle, at the Defence Headquarters Abuja on Tuesday, October 24.

    He said if wounded soldiers are not properly treated, it would dampen the morale of other soldiers.

    The CDS said: “We also need more funding for us to do our duty effectively,” the CDS said.

    “On the issue of accommodations, the Armed Forces of Nigeria recruits 20,000 personnel every year. There is a need to provide befitting accommodation for these personnel.

    “We know that the issue of harmonizing conditions of service has been on the ground, we want you to talk to Mr President about that.”

    The CDS said the Nigerian military would continue to protect the country’s democracy.

    “We know that there are many coups within the West Africa sub-region,” he said.

    “But the Armed Forces of Nigeria is fully committed to democracy. And we want to extend this to the whole of the subregion. The military is fully behind the president.

    “Nobody will threaten us and go free. We will ensure that we restore total peace in Nigeria.”

    Gen. Musa expressed satisfaction with the manner the two Ministers have piloted the affairs of the ministry since they assumed office in July.

    The CDS said the minister’s dedication to duties has enabled the military to achieve their mandates.

    He said: “We assure you that the military will fully cooperate with you.”

    Gen. Musa said the military is prepared to provide security during the forthcoming elections in Imo, Kogi, and Bayelsa.

    In his remarks, the Minister assured that insecurity in Nigeria would reduce drastically within one year of the present administration.

    Badaru said the successes recorded by the Military since the assumption of duty by its present leadership was a pointer that insecurity would soon be a thing of the past in the country.

    He promised to present all requests made by the CDS to President Bola Tinubu and assured that they would be granted.

    Badaru said: “When we come in we set a target that within one year of this administration, the people will see better changes in improvement in security. And the way we are going we will achieve our target.

    “On the issues you raised, Mr. President has never turned me down. He has always approved every request made by the military because he holds the military in high esteem.

    “I will present the requests to him and I’m sure he will do it.”

    The minister commended Gen. Musa for the successes of the military in counter-insurgency operations since he assumed office as the CDS.

    Read Also: Can the Chief of Defence Staff make a difference?

    He said: “Recently your troops killed about 170 terrorists. You have done more even as you are not announcing some of the successes.

    “About 140,000 repentant terrorists have surrendered and many are also surrendering.

    “You are also doing very well in the fight against oil theft in the Niger Delta region.  We have seen significant improvement in oil production due to military operations against oil thieves.

    “Also in the South East facilities are being opened and businesses going on due to the military presence.

    “Under you, the military is working cordially with the MOD. This synergy is helping in restoring peace in the country.

    “Your focus on training officers and men of the military is yielding results through the discipline exhibited by them.”

  • Army disagrees with A’Ibom PDP over link with election rigging

    The Nigerian Army has disagreed with the Akwa Ibom State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), for misinterpreting its show of force exercise as a veiled rigging exercise in favour of the All Progressives Congress((APC).
    The state PDP in a statement signed by it’s spokesman, Comrade Iniobong Ememobong alleged that the plan by the army and other security agencies to stage a show of force ahead of Saturday’s governorship/assembly polls was a rehearsal to help the APC rig the  elections.
    However, in a swift reaction, the assistant director, Army Public Relations Officer for 2 Brigade Nigerian Army, Major Bashir Jajira said the allegation is far from the intention of the army.
    Addressing newsmen during the show of force in Uyo on Saturday, the army spokesperson explained that 10 LGAs in the state, including; Ukanafun, Etim Ekpo, Ikot Ekpene, Oron, and Uyo among others were security flash points.
    He said the army will deal decisively with ballot snatchers in such areas.
    But the PDP has dismissed the show of force security agencies in the state as a smokescreen to aid the Army high command to deploy military personnel to aid in the hijack of election materials in favour of the APC.
    The party appealed to the army to desist from partisan politics and to remain professional in line with their Rules of Engagement, adding that such is the only guarantee for a thriving democracy.
    “The recent show of force and subsequent declaration of 10 “local Government areas as flash points by the Nigerian army is a veiled rigging plan for the APC. This plan we have learnt was hatched after the failure of the army to effectively intervene at the Ikot Ekpene collation center to save the Warsaw general and failed Senator, Godswill Akpabio. .
    “As a party we are at a loss as to the foundation or basis for the declaration of those areas as flashpoints. It is common knowledge that no casualty was recorded in the last elections in Akwa Ibom state, unlike other states where scores of people were killed and maimed. We will like to remind the military that their primary duty is the protection of the territorial sovereignty of our country and not to take over civil policing, except in extreme circumstances (which elections do not fall within).
    “We hereby totally reject the proposed militarization of our elections and refer them to the judgment in the case instituted by President Muhammadu Buhari, who then was candidate of the APC in 2015 on the role of the military in elections.
    “We again call on the Chief of Defence staff, Chief of Army Staff, Chief of Army Operations and the entire Army High command to direct the GOC 6 Division to immediately withdraw the over 30 soldiers attached to Obong Nsima Ekere, the 15 soldiers attached to Chief Godswill Akpabio and the 8 soldiers attached to Senator Ita Enang
    “As an indication of complicity between the Army and the APC currently in operation, it was the APC Governorship candidate who posted the news, even before the Army authorities pronounced it. The APC in Akwa Ibom has been boasting lately that, what the police under the ignoble watch of AIG Kimo could not do, the Army will do. Our obvious reply is found in the scriptural proclamation, “who is he that says a thing and it comes to pass, when the Lord has not commanded”.
    PDP also used the medium to discourage superior military officers  from becoming subjected to politicians in expectation for favourable postings and appointments.
    “Finally, to the soldiers who are preparing to be deployed, we advice them to brace up to meet with the divine army of God which will be on duty on that day to guide His people and protect them from harm. Our party like always will trust in the name of the Lord our God, who is able to do all things, while the opposition will as usual,  put their hopes on their horses, chariots and soldiers(Federal Might)”. The release added
    The party therefore encourage Akwa Ibom people to head out enmasse to their polling units and vote massively for what it described as “the sustenance of the prevailing peace, the continuation of the prosperity and the comprehensive development that the Udom Emmanuel administration represents”.

  • Ex-CDS Alex Badeh laid to rest amid tears

    It was a hectic Wednesday at the Nigerian Air Force Base’s Protestant Church and the National Military Cemetary, Abuja, as top military Officers gathered to pay their last respect to the former Chief of Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshal Alex Badeh.

    The Chief of Defence Staff, General Abayomi Olonisakin and the three Service Chiefs, as well as the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and two serving governors, were among those who joined others to find comforting words for grieving family of late Badeh.

    Air Chief Marshal Badeh’s the immediate family members, friends and relations could not hold their tears at the church and Cemetery.

    Their moods were punctuated by the unfolding events in the programme schedules of the burial ceremony.

    Some members of the immediate family were seen holding onto one another, wiping tears streaming down their faces.

    The Air Chief Marshal was killed on December 18, 2018, by suspected gunmen while returning from his farm located along Abuja-Keffi expressway.

    The sad event sent a shocking way across the length of the country, especially regarding the status of the victim and the hypertensive security situation.

    The funeral service was conducted at the Nigerian Air Force Base’s Protestant Church.

    The atmosphere at the cemetery became more emotional as the body of the late ex-CDS was interned.

    Shortly after the body of the late CDS was conveyed into the church in a casket wrapped in national colours, solemn hymns were rendered to set the mood for the service, which commenced at about 10: 09 am.

    No sooner had the late CDS’ daughter taken the Scripture reading from Job 14:1 – 6 than tributes were delivered by the deceased family.

    Read Also: Photos: Badeh buried in military cemetery in Abuja

    In a brief tribute on behalf of the family, the late Badeh’s son expressed regret his father was consumed by the same “violence” he abhorred in his lifetime.

    In an emotion-laden voice, he said: ” Dad, you were never one to show your true feelings when things are tough.

    “You always had a smile on your face even in adversity, you stood up for what you believed was right and tried to be fair.

    “You were deeply principled and pragmatic. You might have been a big brash bulk of a man but you moved through the world gracefully.

    “You abhorred violence but in the end it found you. You are loved and will never be forgotten”.

    Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar, said Badeh’s death must serve as a wake- up call to all and sundry to lend support to the fight against crime.

    Abubakar said the achievements Air Chief Marshal Badeh would remain a source of inspiration among military personnel

    “He is the 18 chief of Air staff and the 15th chief of Defence Staff. He was an astute airman who earned over 6000 flying hours during his flying career.

    “The death of this gentleman must steer the rest of us not only in the armed forces but indeed in Nigeria to rededicate ourselves in the service of our nation and people to deal decisively with crime and criminality.

    “I’m indeed deeply touched and saddened by the manner in which we lost such an accomplished general who attained the apex of his chosen career in the Nigerian Armed forces, the nation will remain grateful to you for service,” Abubakar said.

    Olonisakin noted that his immediate predecessor’s life was worth emulating.

    The ex-CDS was buried with full military honours amidst the traditional 21 gun salute and presentation of flags to his family.

    The laying of wreath was conducted at the Cemetary in the following order: Mr. Boss Mustapha (Secretary to the Government of the Federation); representative of the Minister of Defence, CDS, Lt-Gen. Tukur Buratai (Chief of Army Staff); Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (Chief of Naval Staff); Mrs. Mary Badeh (deceased’s wife) as well as representative of Regular Course 21, Badeh’s course mates at the Nigerian Defence Academy.

    The Governors of Adamawa state, Mohammed Bindow and that of Plateau, Simon Lalong, as well as the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State and some former governors of Adamawa state were among dignitaries that graced the occasion.

  • CDS orders deployment of Special Forces to Plateau

    …Air Force Deploys Combat Helicopters

    The Chief of Defence Staff, General Abayomi Olonisakin has ordered the deployment of Special Forces into Plateau state just as Combat Helicopters from the Nigerian Air Force headed to the state to restore peace and orderliness.

    According to a statement from the Defence Headquarters, the Special Forces were to beef up the activities of Operation Safe Haven in the state and its environs.

    The statement signed by the Director of Defence Information, Brig Gen John Agim reads: “The Chief of Defence Staff, General Abayomi Gabriel Olonisakin has authorized the deployment of additional Special Forces to Plateau State to beef up the strength of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH).

    “The additional troops which arrived Jos, capital of Plateau State on Monday were received and briefed by the Commander OPSH, Major General AM Atolagbe on their new assignment.

    Read Also:PDP knocks Presidency over statement on Plateau killings

    “The Armed Forces of Nigeria wishes to assure all law abiding citizens of Plateau state of their safety.

    “Meanwhile, misguided youths who have offered themselves to be used as thugs are hereby warned that anyone apprehended will receive the full weight of the law.

    “Herdsmen and farmers are also warned not to take laws into their hands; rather suspected persons should be reported promptly to security agencies”.

    Similarly the Nigerian Air Force announced that Combat Helicopters have been deployed to Plateau with Intelligence, Surveillance and Recoinnassance (ISR) platforms to bring the situation under control.

    The NAF Spokesperson AVM Olatokunbo Adesanya said in a statement: “The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has today, 25 June 2018, deployed an Mi-35P combat helicopter and an Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) aircraft to Plateau State in support of efforts aimed at quelling the crisis that recently erupted in the State and restoring normalcy.

    “The deployment of the ISR aircraft is expected to enhance intelligence gathering while the combat helicopter would conduct armed reconnaissance and other combat air support operations in close coordination with surface forces deployed to the State.

    “Meanwhile, other NAF air assets are available at nearby alternate airfields to hasten the process of restoring normalcy in the State, as might be necessary”.

  • Asymmetric warfare: DHQ collaborate with police, NSCDC

    The Nigerian Military said Monday that a synergy is being worked out on military campaigns that would involve collaborators with the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

    The Chief of Defence staff,  Gen Abayomi Olonisakin who dropped the hint at a training programme for military, police and civil defence Corps personnel at the Army Resource Center in Abuja, said this has become imperative now that the nation is facing asymmetric warfare.

    Olonisakin noted that the initiative was informed by the need to train officers of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, Nigeria Police Force and the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, on campaign planning at operational and strategic levels.

    He said: “The purpose of this course is to train officers of the Armed Forces of Nigeria on campaign planning at operational and strategic level.

    “The course is viewed as a precursor to entrenching multi-agency training to enable us develop understanding and expertise in planning and executing campaign in either single, joint or multi agency levels.”

    Represented by Rear Admiral Dogara Albehu, the CDS added that the 5-day training course, organized by the Defence Headquarters in collaboration with the British Military Advisory Team in Nigeria,was ” specifically designed for participants who are senior staff trained and possibly possess fellow Defence Colleges and equivalent qualifications.”

    According to him “the inclusion of the Ministry of Defence Staff, the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps is to generate a synergy and more rapour in the understanding of roles of campaign planning particularly, that the Armed Forces is now concerned with fighting asymmetric warfare.”

    He added that he approved the training course since it was in tandem was with his vision:

    “To ensure well-motivated trained and equipped Armed Forces that is responsive to national security commitment.”

    While noting that the training was the first of its kind, he said: “It is hoped that the training would facilitate discussions and debate throughout to ensure that participants are provided with greater knowledge and understanding of the entire planning process.”

    The training course had 30 participants from the services operational areas, Ministry of Defence and the Nigeria Police Force as well as the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps.

    Read Also: Boko Haram: Military urged to be wary of guerrilla warfare

  • Buhari extends tenure of Service Chiefs 

    Buhari extends tenure of Service Chiefs 

    The President and Commander in chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria His Excellency President Muhammadu Buhari GCFR, has extended the tenure of all the service chiefs.

    In a statement signed by Col. Tukur Gusau, the Public Relations Officer to the Hon. Minister of Defence,  Mansur Dan Ali said the President’s took the decision, “having carefully reviewed the on-going military operations across the nation and the efforts of the Chief of Defence staff and the Service chiefs in the counter insurgency operations in the North East coupled with the security situation of the Niger Delta region, has graciously approved the extension of tenure of service of  General Abayomi Gabriel Olonisakin, the Chief of Defence Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Yusufu Buratai, Chief of Army Staff; Vice Admiral Ibok-EteIkwe Ibas, the Chief of Naval staff and Air Marshal Sadique Baba Abubakar, the Chief of Air staff,” the statement said.

    While citing the constitutional powers to carry out the decision, the statement said, “This extension is pursuant of the powers conferred on the President and Commander in chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria by section 218 (1) and (2) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and section 09.06 of the Harmonised Terms and Conditions for Service for officers (2012) Revised”.

    The Honourable Minister of Defence Mansur Muhammad Dan-Ali congratulates  the Chief of Defence Staff and Service Chiefs for earning the confidence of the President, Commander in Chief of the Armed Force of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the people of Nigeria  leading to their extension of service.

  • NAFRC prepares 40 Generals for retirement

    NAFRC prepares 40 Generals for retirement

    To ensure a well balanced and productive life after service, the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre ( NAFRC ), Oshodi on sunday commenced a two-week entrepreneurship and management training programmes for 40 senior military officers of the general cadre.

    The officers comprising 15 from the Nigerian Army (NA), 10 from the Navy (NN), 10 from the Air Force (NAF) and five from NAFRC are expected to within two weeks, come up with viable business plans that would be scrutinised by the training facilitators, Empretec Nigeria Foundation.

    Inaugurating this year’s second edition of the course in Lagos yesterday, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Gen. Gabriel Olonisakin urged the participants to take the training seriously.

    Olonisakin, who was represented by the Chief of Defence Administration, Rear Admiral Muazu Salami, said: “As senior managers of the military enterprise, you are now being prepared to deploy knowledge already acquired in the course of your career to more civil use. There is no doubt that life after service presents peculiar challenges, one of which is the need for retired officers to be able to still engage in meaningful economic activities with the aim of ensuring a productive and wholesome life after military service.

    “This is the aim of this training workshop. l have been reliably informed that this training will expose you to discussions and exercises that would adequately prepare you to handle challenges encountered in retirement, particularly concerning that of starting your own businesses.

    “I therefore congratulate you all on your nomination to this workshop and urge you to take full advantage of the benefits it offers. I also expect that some of the skills you will acquire would add value to your productivity at your respective services.”

    Noting that it was the first time the training was being conducted at NAFRC since its inception in 2011, the CDS said the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) was working towards a review of the mandate of the centre to accommodate new thinking in line with modern trends.

    Aside the inauguration of the training, Olonisakin unveiled NAFRC’s remodelled 50 bedroomed guest house and a newly built resource centre.

    Earlier, NAFRC Commandant, Air Vice Marshal Ajibola Jekennu over 42 thousand servicemen and women have benefitted from the skills acquisition programme of the centre.

    Represented by his deputy, Maj.-Gen. Edward Nze, Jekennu said the participants would be taken through various modules specially designed to meet their needs.

    He said: “Records and feedback we get indicate that a good number of out trainees are doing well in civil life. The centre is not stopping at juts training servicemen. The desire of the CDS to extend our services to commissioned officers informed our collaboration with Empretec Nigeria Foundation.

    “The senior officers entrepreneurship and management training workshop is designed to equip them with essential tools and requisite information towards positioning themselves for productive life after service.

    “The objective is mainly ri refocus attention to the fact that a meaningful and productive life can be pursued even after service. Managerial experiences and skills accumulated while in service could be skillfully put to use in civilian pursuits in order to live a wholesome, fulfilling life and still contribute to the progress of the country after military service.”

    Giving a run down of the programme, Empretec’s Country Director, Mrs. Onari Duke tasked the generals to give in their best, adding that those with good business plans would have access to local and international grants available.

    According to her, the initiative was from the United Nations and was currently running through 33 countries.