In a significant gathering of officers and soldiers at the Army Headquarters, Command Officers’ Mess 1 in Asokoro, Abuja, Lieutenant General TA Lagbaja Nam, the Chief of Army Staff of Nigeria, opened the Chief of Army Staff’s Combined Second and Third Quarters conference due to recent appointments and officer responsibilities.
He emphasized the conference’s importance in refining strategies to adapt to the fast-changing security and strategic environments.
The CAS highlighted the Nigerian Army’s achievements in various operations, including Operation HADIN Kai, curbing Boko Haram’s activities in the North East, resulting in surrendered terrorists and the restoration of governance in previously deprived areas. Operation HADARIN DAJI and Operation WHIRL PUNCH effectively countered banditry and insurgency in the North West and North Central regions.
Furthermore, the Nigerian Army contained criminal activities in the South East by Indigenous People of Biafra and Eastern Security Network through Operation UDO KA, allowing law-abiding citizens to conduct their businesses without fear. In collaboration with government agencies, the army successfully thwarted attempts to disrupt economic activities in the South West and achieved positive outcomes in anti-illegal oil bunkering operations in the South South.
While acknowledging the cost and setbacks of military operations, the Chief of Army Staff commended the army for remaining resolute in their efforts to deny criminals respite and intensify operations against them. He announced the establishment of Special Forces units and praised their impressive performances through intelligence-led operations and the use of special equipment, emphasizing the importance of maintaining these resources.
Lieutenant General TA Lagbaja shared President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive to address all security challenges, unveiling his Command Philosophy to enhance the Nigerian Army’s capabilities. He stated the critical role of sound administration and troops’ welfare in operations and expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for directing the payment of pending Group Life Assurance to the families of fallen soldiers.
The Chief of Army Staff reiterated his commitment to the defense of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Lieutenant General TA Lagbaja Nam reminded the gathering of the importance of projecting an appropriate level of force to confront any situation, stating that strength keeps enemies at bay. He officially declared the Chief of Army Staff’s Combined Second and Third Quarters Conference 2023 open and wished participants successful deliberations.
The conference commenced, with officers and soldiers actively engaging in discussions, sharing insights, and devising strategies to further strengthen the Nigerian Army, ensuring the security and well-being of the nation in 2023 and beyond.
