Following a directive from President Bola Tinubu, Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede has reassured Nigerians of the Army’s unwavering dedication to enhancing national security. Addressing troops at the 4 Special Forces Command in Doma, Nasarawa State, Oluyede declared a resolute commitment to quelling terrorism, kidnapping, and banditry across the country. He emphasized the Nigerian public’s reliance on the military for their safety and security, underscoring the urgency of the situation. Oluyede’s visit served as a platform to express his determination to bolster the Special Forces’ capabilities, outlining plans for a new Special Forces school aimed at elevating training standards and operational effectiveness. His interaction with the soldiers highlighted the collective responsibility in confronting the nation’s security challenges and restoring peace.
Oluyede acknowledged the prevailing security concerns plaguing the country and stressed the imperative of collaborative efforts to overcome these obstacles. He emphasized the need for collective action, transcending individual roles, to address the multifaceted security challenges. The COAS expressed his personal weariness with the ongoing security threats and conveyed a strong message of determination, emphasizing the necessity of making Nigeria safe for all its citizens. He vividly illustrated the gravity of the situation by referencing the fear of kidnapping that pervades even short journeys between towns, declaring that such a state of affairs must come to an end. His words underscored the Army’s overarching goal of enhancing national security and ensuring the safety of all Nigerians.
The COAS further accentuated the significance of troop welfare as a crucial element in achieving operational success. He pledged to prioritize the well-being of soldiers throughout his tenure, recognizing their essential role in effectively fulfilling their duties. Oluyede expressed his conviction that a nation as richly endowed as Nigeria should not be held captive by criminal elements and terrorists. This belief underscored his call for soldiers to approach their duties with utmost seriousness, dedicating themselves to restoring peace and unity across the country. This call to action emphasized the collective responsibility of the military in safeguarding the nation’s future.
General Oluyede praised Major General Hillary Nzan, Commander of the 4 Special Forces Command, for his notable achievements within the command. This acknowledgment reflected the COAS’s appreciation for effective leadership and operational success within the military ranks. He further reiterated the Army’s unwavering commitment to tackling all forms of insecurity swiftly and decisively, assuring the public of their resolve to address these challenges head-on. This commitment reinforced the Army’s role as a protector of the nation’s stability and security.
Beyond pronouncements of commitment, Oluyede conveyed a clear message of accountability to the troops, underscoring the importance of duty fulfillment and the consequences of negligence. He emphasized that while his leadership would prioritize their welfare, there would be repercussions for failing to meet expectations. This assertive stance underscored the seriousness with which he approaches the tasks ahead and emphasized the importance of professionalism and dedication within the ranks of the military. His firm declaration, “If you do not do your work well, I will deal with you decisively,” reinforced the expectation of unwavering commitment from every soldier.
The COAS’s visit included more than just addresses and pronouncements. His actions demonstrated tangible support for the welfare and development of the 4 Special Forces Command. He commissioned a newly constructed residential apartment for the Regimental Sergeant Major, a symbolic gesture recognizing the important role non-commissioned officers play in the military structure. Furthermore, he commissioned the Lt. Gen. Tal House and inspected several completed and ongoing projects at the command. These actions showcased the COAS’s commitment to providing adequate resources and infrastructure for the troops, further underscoring his pledge to prioritize their welfare and enable them to perform their duties effectively. This practical approach highlights the COAS’s commitment to not just words but also actions in strengthening the Nigerian Army’s fight against insecurity.
