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Tag: Nigerian Army

  • Army distributes cash gifts, palliatives to 16 widows in Katsina cantonment

    Army distributes cash gifts, palliatives to 16 widows in Katsina cantonment

    The Commander of the 17th Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Babatunde Omopariola, distributed cash gifts and palliatives to 16 widows yesterday during a durbar held at the 17th Brigade Joint Officers’ Mess, Natsinta Cantonment in Katsina.

    According to a statement from the Army Public Relations Officer in Katsina, the gesture was intended to offer much-needed support to the families of fallen soldiers as they face life’s challenges.

    In his address, Brigadier General Omopariola highlighted the importance of the initiative, stressing the need to ensure that the sacrifices of the fallen heroes are not forgotten.

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    He said: “There is nothing that can compensate for the loss of your loved ones, who sacrificed their lives for this great nation and humanity.

    ‘’This occasion also underscores the duty to honor the memory of those who served as it is crucial to ensure that the families of fallen heroes are not forgotten. They have borne the heaviest burden, and we must stand with them in their time of need.”

    The Commander also promised to resolve all issues raised by the widows and also encouraged them to remain resilient, asserting that they possess the strength to overcome adversity and build meaningful lives.

  • Ex-Private Ogunleye versus Nigerian Army

    Ex-Private Ogunleye versus Nigerian Army

    • By Mike Kebonkwu

    The story of one ex- Pte Ruth Ogunleye formerly of the Nigerian Army will not go away soon; it is trending  all over the media space.  It is a tale of her travail and sojourn in the Nigerian Army.  Her story has elicited all manners of reaction; some out-rightly uninformed and emotional.  The ex-soldier has been waging a relentless media campaign against her former employers and superior officers.  It is moving story of gender based violence; sexual exploitation and abuse by a superior officer which the army should be worried about.   The ex-soldier was said to have been medically boarded and rewarded with life pension but she insists that she is medically fine.

    The case appeared not to have been properly disposed of because the applicable law was not followed. Right from the beginning, the ex-soldier set the agenda, choosing the forum and setting the pace.  The army has found itself reacting rather tardily, instead of being proactive with military despatch to save her image from being pummelled by the ex-soldier turned blogger. 

    The ex-soldier has consistently maintained that she is normal, and had no medical or psychiatric problem of any sort. At this point, nothing stops the military coming out with the said medical or investigative findings after all, the soldier had made it an issue.  So no argument of medical confidence should arise because the ex-solder herself had taken the matter to the court of public opinion.  One is afraid the campaign is damaging to the image and reputation of the Nigerian Army beyond what it may think about it.   Sadly, we are a people giving to too much emotions and sentiments appealing to religious morality rather than logic, common sense and the rule of law.

    The moment the story broke, the Minister of Women Affairs took it upon herself as a matter of gender issue affecting a female folk serving in the army.  She was full of bile and venom even before seeking audience with the Army Chief where she was told that there was going to be investigation into the matter. The soldier was taken to the National Hospital Abuja for investigation. Again, being an issue of public concern and subject of inquiry, the outcome of her medical investigation ought to be made known.  After all, the ex-soldier has also maintained that she is normal but the army said she is not.  Then, who is lying?

    It ought to be understood that service in the military is different from the main stream public service; and different rules and terms of service apply. Members of the armed forces are guided by the Armed Forces Act Cap A20 Laws of the federation of Nigeria 2004, and the Harmonized Terms and Conditions of Service for both officers and soldiers respectively.  What are the facts of the allegation, what is the outcome of the investigation?  Was the allegation of the ex-soldier substantiated?  Was justice done to the female soldier? Was justice done to the officers involved and if they were cleared, what was the sanction against the female soldier for the smear campaign and libellous publications against the officers? 

    Did she violate any service rule or law?  If yes, was she sanctioned for the infraction of the law?  The army whose reputation has been trashed by the smear campaign of the soldier also deserves justice. As famously held by Chukudifu Akunne Oputa (JSC) in the landmark case of Josiah V. the State, justice is not a one way traffic; it is not even two ways traffic.  It is three ways traffic.  Justice to the victim, justice to the accused person and justice to the society (Nigerian Army), whose laws have been violated. 

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    The continuous cyber bullying and campaign by the ex-soldier displaying photographs of senior officers is a deserving offence under our law and liable to be sanctioned. It has a serious negative implication on discipline and bad precedence given the way it was handled.  The army should be ready for deluge of this campaign in weeks, months and years to come from its rank especially given the apparent remarkable decline in discipline amongst its ranks.  The ex-soldier is consistent, furiously and relentlessly unleashing media borne ballistic missiles against the army and its command system.  When the army found its voice, it also bowed probably to political pressure and did not apply the law but seem to have chosen to reward the indiscipline of the ex-soldier with act of generosity supposedly playing to the gallery of uninformed commentators and gender activists who ignored the fact that the soldier was subject to service law.  

    From the press release of the army, it ignored to apply the Armed Forces Act and the Harmonized Terms and Condition of Service (Soldiers) (2017) by rewarding the soldier with pensionable discharge when she is not qualified for it having not put up to 10 years of service in the army.  She was said to have been discharged on medical ground and awarded pension for life.  However, in Chapter 14, Section 23 of the Harmonized Terms and Conditions of Service Soldiers/Ratings/Airmen (2017), provides thus: “Irrespective of length of service, any soldier/rating/airmen who discharges from service as a result of injury sustained during official duty shall be entitled to disability pension”.

    The pertinent question is, was the injury for which the ex-soldier was discharged caused in the course of official duty?  Information in the media space which is confirmed to be true is that she has served barely five years, and five years does not qualify her for life pension.  The rule is that she should be boarded and paid off; no emotions, no sentiments!  The Nigerian Army is not to be run like a missionary organization or Boys Scout; the rule must apply for effective discipline, good order and reputation of the military.

    In the press release, the army stated thus: “The medical evaluation confirmed that Ruth Ogunleye was suffering from a condition that made her medically vulnerable.  In light of this, the army, while fully capable of proceeding with disciplinary action for her acts of indiscipline and misconduct, opted to exercise compassion and leniency”.  Why can’t the army apply its own law in this case?  From the Code of Conduct and Ethics in Chapter 18 of HTACOS (Soldiers), “Soldiers/ratings/airmen are the driving force of the military profession.  A soldier/rating/airman is therefore, a personality with military bearing, discipline, integrity, knowledge properly turned out at all times…”   Applying any test, objective or subjective, does that ex-soldier in all good conscience have any military bearing?  The army certainly should look at its recruitment system to avoid bringing such elements into its ranks and file.  The army should consider purging itself and get rid of elements that will not project its image positively in the complex task of fighting insecurity.  Justice must be seen to be done to the ex-soldier, not compassion or leniency; just as justice must be done to the officers whose images and reputations have been tarnished.  Above all, justice must be done to the Nigerian Army.  The army should not accommodate social misfits in its rank and it must observe the rule of law at all times in dispensation of justice; not bowing to pressure of any kind, political or filial. 

    The case of this ex-female soldier, Ogunleye is a situation where not to bend the rules.  After all, there is no known law that says that someone with certain medical conditions cannot be tried in court unless there is infirmity that prevents her/him from being arraigned.  While insanity is a defence in law, the accused can still be tried but where the plea of insanity succeeds, will be sentenced at the pleasure of the president; that is the law.  The Nigerian Army is not completely helpless in the case of this ex-soldier if it wants to build a disciplined force.  Something has to be done indeed! 

    Justice is yet crying until there is justice for the ex-soldier, justice for the accused officers and justice for the Nigerian Army.  On issue of professional discipline of its personnel and the rule of law, the army should not bow to political pressure; leniency and compassion do not constitute part of military law or the Armed Forces Act.  

    •Kebonkwu Esq, an attorney writes via mikekebonkwu@yahoo.com

  • 250 Army Captains write promotion exam

    250 Army Captains write promotion exam

    Over 250 Captains from various units and formations of the Nigerian Army have begun writing the Captain to Major Practical Promotion Examination (CMPPE).

    The examination is meant to broaden their knowledge of military operations and how best to tackle current security challenges in the country.

    The Commander of Training and Doctrine Command of the Nigerian Army (TRADOC NA), Maj.-Gen. Kevin Aligbe, who addressed the participants in Akure, the Ondo State capital, said the exercise was to enable the officers understand various aspects of military operations.

    Aligbe noted that the prevailing security challenges necessitated deployment of Nigerian Army personnel for internal security operations across the country.

    Aligbe listed Tactics and Low Intensity Conflict, Map Reading, Radio Communication, and the French language as areas in which the officers would be assessed.

    “The objective of this examination is to equip participants with a broader understanding of military operations, considering the security situation in our country.

    “I urge all candidates, especially those from outside, to be mindful of their health. We have deployed medical doctors, paramedics, and ambulances to handle medical cases. We have also made arrangements to provide quality meals throughout the examination,” he said.

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    The commander advised the candidates to focus on the examination and avoid unnecessary social interactions.

    “The security situation in Akure is relatively peaceful but unpredictable. Therefore, I advise you to be vigilant and mindful of your movements. It is also advisable to follow instructions and use only the designated vehicles and buses provided for you,” Aligbe added.

    The General Officer Commanding (GOC) of 2 Division of the Nigerian Army, Maj.-Gen. Obinna Onubogu, explained that the examination was a critical step in the career progression of army officers and encouraged the candidates to display utmost honesty, commitment, and professionalism.

    “It is a golden opportunity for the candidates to further consolidate their careers by assessing and evaluating their proficiency and developing their junior leadership capabilities for higher responsibilities in the Nigerian Army.

    “Your performance in the examination will be a key determinant of your career progression, as well as ensuring that the Nigerian Army continues to succeed in its operations across the nation,” he added.

  • Troops destroy 15 illegal refineries, recover 115,000 litres of stolen crude

    Troops destroy 15 illegal refineries, recover 115,000 litres of stolen crude

    Troops of the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army have dismantled 15 illegal refineries, arrested 10 suspects, and recovered 115,000 stolen litres of petroleum products in their ongoing operations to clear the Niger Delta region of economic sabotage.

    A statement signed on Sunday, October 6, by the Acting Deputy Director, 6 Division Army Public Relations Lt. Col. Danjuma Jonah Danjuma said the troops also dismantled over 30 cooking pots and intercepted eleven vehicles and many boats during the operations.

    In Rivers State, Danjuma explained that following a tip-off on oil theft around SIAT Farm, Elele in Ikwerre Local Government Area (LGA), troops mobilised to the scene and intercepted a truck with Reg No GDD 831 ZN Anambra loaded with about 40,000 litres of stolen crude.

    “Similarly, at Sankri in Okrika LGA, the operations led to the deactivation of three illegal refining sites, the destruction of two wooden boats with over 26,500 litres of stolen products recovered.

    “This feat was also recorded at Dapama in Bille general area, Degema LGA, where over four illegal refining sites were taken out, two wooden boats stocked with over 10,000 litres of Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) and 6,000 litres of stolen crude intercepted”.

    Danjuma said at the stretch of the Imo Riverside, troops identified and destroyed several illegal refining sites, and makeshift structures in camps, with one big pot and over 30 cooking drum pots dismantled.

    “Others are the destruction of 4 wooden boats, one fibre boat, and over 15,000 litres of stolen crude around Okoloma, Obuzor, and Ukwa Creeks which were handled appropriately in line with a subsisting mandate”, he said.

    Danjuma said at Freedom Kula in Akuku-Toru LGA, troops discovered a pipeline vandalism site, where three gas cylinders were recovered.

    “Further exploitation in the area, led to the arrest of one suspect. At Ebocha, OB II and Obiafu Ndoni, four suspects were arrested with over 4,000 litres of stolen condensates in a Toyota Camry with Reg No ZKW 648 AA Kaduna and a tricycle at Ogba/Ndoni/Egbema LGA.

    “While at Omoku, 5 inactive illegal refining sites with several empty metal drums were destroyed, with 2 suspects arrested at Orashi River with reasonable quantities of stolen condensates”, he said.

    He said that in Bayelsa State around Sabasuo general area in Nembe LGA, active illegal refining sites were deactivated with over 2,800 litres of stolen product recovered.

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    “At Amalakiri in Southern Ijaw, one active illegal refining site was taken out with over 2,500 stolen products recovered. Troops also intercepted a wooden boat ladened with over 1,800 litres of stolen AGO in sacks around Idewa/Waribokiri general area in Ogbia LGA”, he said.

    Danjuma noted that In Delta State, a trailer with Reg No JJN 167 ZU Plateau was intercepted siphoning crude from the Nigerian Petrolatum Development Company Oil pipeline at Ozoro in Isioko North LGA.

    He said two persons had been arrested in connection to the crime adding that many other vehicles loaded with stolen products were intercepted at Obi Anyima Community in Ika South LGA and Ugo Community in Orhiomwon Edo State in follow-up operations conducted.

    Explaining the situation in Akwa Ibom, he said:  “Akwa Ibom State recorded some measure of success, as troops acting on credible intelligence intercepted 3 drums of premium motor spirit, at the fringes of Oron waterways.

    “The products were suspected to have been prepared for smuggling to a neighbouring country. Troops have also continued to maintain vigilance in the ongoing anti-bunkering operations in the state to deny economic saboteurs and their collaborators freedom of action”.

  • U.S.-based doctor sues Major over alleged trespass

    U.S.-based doctor sues Major over alleged trespass

    A U.S based Nigerian doctor, Ijeoma Nduka-Nwosu, has sued Major Joseph Adebiyi of the Nigerian Army before the Lagos State High Court for allegedly trespassing on her property located at Olugborogan Village, Lekki, Lagos State.

    In the suit numbered LD/14323LMW/2023, Dr. Nduka-Nwosu averred that she is the rightful owner of the parcel of land measuring 2912.150 square metres which she purchased from the Sule Olusesi Chieftaincy Family in 1992

    The medical doctor claimed that she had maintained uninterrupted possession of the property since the purchase and made substantial investments on the property, including constructing a residential building that had reached a habitable stage until December 2021 when some thugs invaded the property resulting in extensive damage valued at over N25 million.

    She claimed that the attackers destroyed the perimeter walls and stole construction materials, all while threatening her workers and asserting that Major Adebiyi had taken over the land.

    Dr Nduka-Nwosu further claimed that the incident was reported to various law enforcement agencies including the Lagos Task Force on Land Grabbing.

    The plaintiff is seeking multiple reliefs, including a declaration of her ownership of the land, an injunction to prevent further trespass by Major Adebiyi and his agents, and N50million in damages for the alleged destruction, emotional distress, repair costs, and general trauma caused by the attacks.

    In a statement by Head of Chambers, Ubani & Co, Legal Practitioners, Mr Joseph Igwe, Dr. Nduka-Nwosu claimed that despite the ongoing legal proceedings and evidence against him, Major Adebiyi has continued to disrupt her lawful possession of the property.

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    Igwe in the statement noted that Major Adebiyi has not filed any defence to the suit against him but has rather continued to lay claim to the property and is presently attempting to resurvey the property.

    Part of the statement reads: “This suit has since 2023 been served on Major Adebiyi, with an application for interlocutory injunction, but till date, he has been unable to file any defence to the suit, and rather than filing a defence, he continued trespassing on the land as if no legal action has been instituted against him.

    “We are using this means to warn all prospective buyers to beware…as Major Adebiyi does not have an entitlement to the land. The matter is lis pendes.”

  • Nigerian Army begins shooting exercise in Taraba

    Nigerian Army begins shooting exercise in Taraba

    • ‘Don’t panic over sounds of gunfire’

    The Sixth Brigade of the Nigerian Army in Jalingo, the Taraba State capital, will today begin a shooting exercise in Jimlari as part of its annual range classification exercise.

    Spokesman of the brigade, Olubodunde Oni, announced this in a statement yesterday in Jalingo.

    The statement reads: “As part of yearly routine, the 6 brigade, Nigeria Army Jalingo will begin its Annual 2004 Range Classification phase 2 from Tuesday, September 17, to Thursday, September 19, 2004 at military cantonment in Jimlari.

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    “The shooting exercise will be undertaken by unit personnel to enhance their weapon handling and maintenance ability, among others.

    “During the exercise, there will be massive movement of troops and equipment, including firing of live ammunition at the military range.

    “Consequently, members of the public are advised not to panic as adequate measures are already in place to ensure safety of lives and properties.

    “They are further informed to stay away from 114 Battalion at Jimlari shooting range area throughout the period of the exercise.”

  • Army’s 81 division launches operations planning cadre to boost military readiness

    Army’s 81 division launches operations planning cadre to boost military readiness

    The Nigerian Army’s 81 Division has launched its Operations Planning Cadre to enhance military readiness and operational efficiency, with a focus on asymmetric warfare.

    The event, which took place in Lagos, was attended by senior military officials and representatives from various security agencies.

    Brig. Gen. Hassan Bukar, chairman of the Organising Committee, highlighted the cadre’s essential role in optimizing military operations.

    “The Operations Planning Cadre is a significant platform in the Nigerian Army that affords officers the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions and develop more effective strategies for executing military operations,” Brig. Gen. Bukar stated.

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    He further underscored the cadre’s role in maintaining troop safety and ensuring security within the Division’s jurisdiction.

    Brig. Gen. Bukar also stressed the importance of efficient planning to address evolving security challenges and called for greater collaboration between the military and other security agencies.

    “The theme for this year’s Operations Planning Cadre, ‘Effective Planning: A Panacea for Operational Efficiency in Asymmetric Warfare,’ highlights the necessity of strategic planning in overcoming the complex challenges we face today,” he remarked.

    The general officer of commanding 81 division of Nigeria army, Maj. Gen. Farouk Mijinyawa expressed his pleasure at attending the ceremony and commended the initiative for aligning with the Nigerian Army’s commitment to enhancing its officers’ operational capabilities.

    “The Operations Planning Cadre is a significant training activity in the Nigerian Army’s Forecast of Events for this year. It provides an avenue for robust interaction and brainstorming on issues that affect our operations,”

    He further emphasised the importance of joint operations in today’s complex security environment, praising the involvement of officers from various security agencies.

    “This close collaboration facilitates better understanding and effective responses to contemporary security threats across the country,” he added.

    Maj. Gen. Mijinyawa affirmed that the Operations Planning Cadre aligns with the Chief of Army Staff’s command philosophy, which aims to transform the Nigerian Army into a well-trained, equipped, and highly motivated force capable of fulfilling its constitutional responsibilities within a joint environment.

  • Nigerian Army won’t succumb to calls to disrupt democratic governance, says Lagbaja

    Nigerian Army won’t succumb to calls to disrupt democratic governance, says Lagbaja

    The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja, has said that the Army will not succumb to calls by young Nigerians and powerful interest blocs to disrupt democratic governance in the country.

    Lt-Gen Lagbaja stated this on Tuesday, August 27, in his opening remarks at the 2024 Chief of Army Staff combined second and third quarters conference held in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom state capital.

    He said that the Nigerian Army was still struggling to restore its integrity after many years of military rule and hence is not ready to lose its prestige built in the past 25 years of staying out of power.

    The COAS, who spoke against the backdrop of calls by youths for military intervention during the August 1 to 10 EndbadGovernance protest, pledged to ensure that the Army works for a united and secure country.

    “Another pertinent issue that came up during the recent protest is the call for undemocratic intervention in governance by the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

    “Although one can say this was coming from young Nigerians who never experienced the era of Nigeria’s extensive military rule and the concerted struggle by heroes and heroines of our current democratic dispensation to get the Nation on its current path.

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    “As Chief of Army Staff, my simple response to the call is, “Thanks, but no thanks!” The Nigerian Army will not allow itself to be used to undemocratically sail some interests to power.

    “As the Service that received the most image bashing as a fallout of previous military interventions in Nigeria, the Nigerian Army is not poised to lose the new prestige it has painstakingly built in the past 25 years”, Lagbaja said.

    He said that apart from combating physical insecurity such as terrorism, banditry, crude oil theft, and others, the Nigerian Army was poised to address the challenge of the food crisis which could trigger physical security issues.

    To this end, Lagbaja revealed that the Nigerian Army as a way of ensuring food security was embarking on massive food production in partnership with the government and the private sector.

    “Evidently, the situation that led to the protest seems to have settled, but the Nigerian Army understands that the issue of food security will remain on the front burner of our national security policy and discussions for a while.

    “As a way of strengthening its soft power approach to resolving Nigeria’s food security challenge, the Nigerian Army will, in the coming days, review its agricultural policy to better position the Nigerian Army Farms and Ranches Limited to significantly boost crop production so that the Army can release grains into the market at highly subsidized rate in support of government efforts.

    “Furthermore, the Army Headquarters is reviewing some proposals for partnerships with Ministries, Departments, and Agencies of government and reputable private organizations on how best to collaborate to resolve the food crisis in the country.

    “Relatedly, Nigerian Army troops currently provide security cover for farmers in critical farming communities in the North East, North West, and North Central zones. This is to prevent the devastating consequences of a pause or stop in food production in those regions on the entire country’s food supply chain”, he said.

    While thanking President Bola Tinubu for supporting the Army with funds and logistics, the COAS maintained that the Army will not fail in its constitutional responsibility of securing the Nation’s territorial integrity.

    ‘The Nigerian Army also acquired other combat enablers, such as Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicles, rifles, and ammunition to strengthen our operations across the Country.

    ‘These acquisitions will undoubtedly enhance the effectiveness of our troops across the various theatres and will help firm up the nation’s path to a security environment that will enable economic prosperity.

    “The Nigerian Army has made remarkable progress in the last two quarters of the Year. These achievements are a result of the tremendous support from our political leaders, cooperation with Sister Services and other security agencies, and the backing of Nigerians.

    “We urge all well-meaning Nigerians to continue supporting our troops deployed across the Federation. We look forward to enhanced collaboration and assistance in making our beloved country, Nigeria, safe for everyone. The Nigerian Army will continue to collaborate with personnel of other security agencies to contain the myriad security threats across the country’s six geopolitical zones.

    “With a high sense of responsibility and respect, I humbly express our profound gratitude to the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Grand Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic, for his unflinching support and strategic guidance to the Nigerian Army.

    “On behalf of the officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army, I once more pledge our unalloyed loyalty and total commitment to the defence of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

    “I also wish to acknowledge His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, for honouring our invitation and consistently supporting our collective efforts to combat criminal activities in Akwa Ibom state,” he said.

    Declaring open the five-day Chief of Army Staff Combined second and third quarters conference, Akwa Ibom state governor Umo Eno thanked the Nigerian Army for sustaining the peace and security of the state and Nation.

    While appreciating the strategic role played by the Army in securing Akwa Ibom as a leading oil producer in the country, Eno reiterated the need for a new battalion, preferably in the Oron federal constituency of the State.

    The governor said the state government had previously donated gunboats and patrol vehicles among other security measures, adding that the new battalion would reinforce the security architecture of the state.

    He commended the synergy between the Army formations in the State and other security agencies, saying it is a major boost to the security of the state, assuring of the State Government’s readiness to lend all necessary support to enable the establishment of the proposed army base.

  • Army applauds philanthropist over cash donation to families of slain soldiers

    Army applauds philanthropist over cash donation to families of slain soldiers

    The Nigerian Army has expressed appreciation to a businessman and philanthropist, Gboyega Kaizer Obelawo, for donating cash gifts to the families of 17 soldiers killed in the Okuama community in Delta state.

    The 17 soldiers of the 181 Amphibious Battalion on a peace mission were killed by suspected youths of the Ukuama community on March 17.

    Obelawo, who is the Managing Director of Kaizer Pro Limited, donated cash gifts to the families to support their businesses and upkeep.

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    The army, in a statement by the Commanding Officer of 181 Amphibious Battalion, Lt.-Col. B Dabo, on Tuesday, July 16, described the gesture as an indication of Obelawo’s love for the security of the country.

    Dabo said that Obelawo’s financial support to the families of the fallen heroes also indicates the significance he accords to the welfare of military personnel.

    He said: “Your kind gesture did not only show the importance you place on security but also on the welfare of the Nigerian Army personnel.

    “I assure you that your support will go a long way in alleviating and bringing succour to the deceased personnel’s families in these difficult times.

    “We sincerely appreciate your unwavering support to this Battalion and pray that the Almighty God continue to direct the affairs of your company.”

  • Celebrating 161 years of the Nigerian Army

    Celebrating 161 years of the Nigerian Army

    By Sani Kukasheka Usman

    As the Nigerian Army prepares to commemorate its 161st anniversary tomorrow July 6, in Jos, Plateau State, with the theme “Transforming the Nigerian Army: Imperative for Combating Contemporary Security Challenges within a Joint Environment”, it is important to spare a moment to reflect on this symbol of national power and its profound contributions to our national development, peace and security and above all the enduring legacy of one of the greatest armies in the world for over a century and a half. This year’s Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2024 is not just an attestation of the Army’s rich history, but also a recognition of its role in the nation’s security, development, and peace.

    The Nigerian Army, established in 1863 with a strength of 18 men, known as the “Glover Hausas”, has grown from a modest force to a formidable institution known for its professionalism, resilience, dedication and immense contribution to national development, peace and security in our country, West Africa and beyond. Over the years, the Nigerian Army has demonstrated exceptional bravery and commitment in various national and international engagements. From peacekeeping missions in conflict-ridden regions across the world to defending the sovereignty of Nigeria during the civil war and against insurgencies and other security threats, the Nigerian Army has consistently showcased its capability and resolve as a professional army.

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    Beyond its military engagements in peacekeeping and peace enforcement especially in some West African states, the Nigerian Army has significantly contributed to national development. Through various civil-military cooperation initiatives, the army has been playing an important role in infrastructure development, disaster response, and community services. Projects such as the construction of roads, schools, and medical facilities in underserved areas through initiatives such as the Chief of Army Staff’s Special Projects, medical outreaches and Quick Impact Projects for host communities, highlight the army’s dedication to the defence of Nigeria’s territorial integrity and improving the quality of life for Nigerians.

    In the face of internal security challenges, including insurgencies, banditry, and communal conflicts, the Nigerian Army has remained a bulwark of peace and security in Nigeria. The ongoing counterinsurgency operations against Boko Haram in the Northeast, efforts to curb kidnappings and banditry in the Northwest, and other Internal Security Operations (ISOs) in aid of civil authorities in various parts of the country point to the Nigerian Army’s critical role in maintaining peace and security in Nigeria.

    Interestingly, the army’s counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency strategies have evolved over the years, adapting to the changing dynamics of the security challenges. This adaptability, combined with rigorous training and advanced military technologies, ensures that the Nigerian Army remains a formidable force capable of addressing contemporary security threats in the country in conjunction with other services and security agencies, hence the vision of a joint environment.

    In recent years, the Nigerian Army has also made significant strides towards gender mainstreaming. The establishment of a Women’s Corps shows the service’s commitment to gender inclusivity and equality. Women in the Nigerian Army have increasingly taken on roles that were traditionally dominated by men, participating in combat, leadership, and technical positions. This inclusion not only enhances the operational effectiveness of the army but also promotes gender equality within the service.

    The Nigerian Army’s modernization efforts include the establishment of an aviation corps, a giant stride in enhancing its operational capabilities. The recent acquisition of helicopters has significantly bolstered the army’s ability to conduct aerial surveillance, rapid troop deployment, and logistics support. This advancement in aviation technology will undoubtedly ensure that the Nigerian Army remains at the forefront of modern military operations, capable of addressing diverse security challenges with greater efficiency in the future.

    Therefore, it is particularly gratifying that this year’s celebration is being held in Jos, Plateau State, headquarters of the 3 Armoured Division and Operation SAFE HAVEN, known as the home of tourism in Nigeria. Jos, with its scenic landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and pleasant climate, provides a fitting backdrop for this momentous occasion. The choice of Jos not only highlights the city’s significance but also promotes its potential as a tourist destination, contributing to the state’s economic growth, and enhancing peace and security on the Plateau.

    As we commemorate 161 years of the Nigerian Army, it is imperative we also honour the sacrifices of the brave officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army who have served and continue to serve the nation with distinction. Their unwavering commitment to duty, courage in the face of adversity, discomfort and dedication to national development are the hallmarks of the Nigerian Army’s enduring legacy. Yet, despite the countless sacrifices made by these citizens in uniform, the level of understanding and appreciation from our fellow Nigerians has sometimes fallen woefully short. It is our solemn duty to rectify this, stand in solidarity with the noble protectors of our sovereign lands, and honour their commitment to preserving our cherished way of life.

    The Nigerian Army’s contributions to global peace and security extend beyond the nation’s borders. Nigeria is one of the largest troop-contributing countries to United Nations peacekeeping missions, having participated in operations in Lebanon, Congo, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Sudan, South Sudan, The Gambia, Guinea and many other countries. Nigerian peacekeepers are renowned for their professionalism, bravery, and dedication to restoring peace and stability in conflict zones.

    These international engagements have not only enhanced Nigeria’s reputation on the global stage but also provided valuable experience and exposure to Nigerian soldiers, further strengthening the army’s capabilities.

    The Nigerian Army’s role in community outreach and humanitarian efforts cannot be overstated. In times of natural disasters, such as floods and epidemics, the army has been at the forefront of relief and rescue operations, providing critical support and assistance to affected communities. The Army’s Medical Corps has also been instrumental in delivering healthcare services to remote and underserved areas, often bridging the gap in public health infrastructure.

    The army’s involvement in educational initiatives, including the establishment of schools and scholarship programmes for children of fallen soldiers, shows its commitment to the welfare of its personnel and their families. These initiatives foster a sense of community and support, ensuring that the sacrifices of soldiers and their families are recognized and honoured.

    In an era of rapidly evolving security threats, the Nigerian Army has embraced technological advancements to enhance its operational effectiveness. The adoption of drones, advanced communication systems, and modern weaponry has revolutionized the army’s approach to modern warfare. These technologies provide critical intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities, enabling more precise and effective operations.

    Furthermore, the Nigerian Army’s investment in cyber warfare capabilities and counter-terrorism strategies reflects its proactive stance in addressing new and emerging threats. Training programmes and international collaborations have been pivotal in equipping Nigerian Army officers and soldiers with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of modern conflict.

    As we celebrate 161 years of the Nigerian Army, it is also a time to look ahead and envision the future of this esteemed institution. Therefore, the Nigerian Army Day Celebration 2024 under the able leadership of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General TA Lagbaja, is more than a commemoration of the past; it is a celebration of the present and a commitment to the future. In Jos, Plateau State, amidst the beautiful landscapes and rich cultural heritage, we honour the Nigerian Army’s legacy of bravery, service, and national development. We celebrate the men and women who have dedicated their lives to protecting the nation and promoting peace.

    •Brigadier General Usman (rtd) mni fnipr, is a former Director of Army Public Relations.