COAS DIRECTS BATTALION COMMANDERS TO TACKLE EMERGING SECURITY THREATS WITH EXEMPLARY LEADERSHIP

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The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has instructed Battalion Commanders of the Nigerian Army (NA) to effectively address emerging threats to national security by demonstrating exemplary leadership in the command of their troops.

General Oluyede issued the directive during his address to Battalion Commanders at the First Commanding Officers’ Workshop for 2025, held at the Headquarters 2 Division Nigerian Army (NA) in Ibadan. He was on a working tour to assess the Division’s operational and administrative activities.

The COAS emphasized that as Battalion Commanders, they serve as a crucial link between the operational and tactical levels of command, and must therefore exemplify leadership qualities such as responsibility, accountability, and moral courage. These qualities, he noted, are essential for leading their troops both in battle and during peacetime.

He urged the Commanding Officers to take firm action in addressing national security threats within their respective areas of responsibility.

In his remarks, General Oluyede described the theme of the workshop, “Enhancing Tactical Level Command and Leadership Within a Joint Environment,” as highly relevant and aligned with his command philosophy aimed at transforming the Nigerian Army. He encouraged the Battalion Commanders to remain committed to the government and constitution of Nigeria.

The COAS also commended the Chief of Training (Army), Major General Sadiq Ndalolo, and his team for organizing the capacity development workshop, and expressed his deep appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his ongoing support of the army’s transformation.

Earlier, Major General Obinna Onubogu, the General Officer Commanding 2 Division and host of the workshop, informed the participants that the workshop aimed to renew Battalion Commanders’ commitment to the COAS’ vision of a motivated and combat-ready army. He highlighted that the workshop would provide valuable insights into tactical operations, strategic planning, and leadership skills, contributing to operational and administrative efficiency across various theatres of operations.

In addition, General Oluyede addressed the troops of the division at the Garrison Parade Ground, commending their sacrifices in addressing the country’s security challenges and urging them to remain professional and steadfast.

The COAS reiterated that the welfare of soldiers and their families remains his top priority, listing ongoing welfare initiatives, such as the regular provision of uniforms, kits, combat enablers, improved accommodation, access to soft loan schemes, increased Ration Cash cum Instructors’ Allowances (RCA), and affordable housing for retirees.

As part of his welfare efforts to improve living and working conditions, the COAS inaugurated the 2 Division Petroleum, Oil, and Lubricants (POL) Station at Adekunle Fajuyi Cantonment and a Military Police Holding Facility at Mokola Barracks. He also approved the immediate rehabilitation of the Warrant Officers’ and Sergeants’ Mess at Adekunle Fajuyi Cantonment and the 81 Battalion Officers’ Mess at Mokola.

The COAS concluded his visit by inspecting the ongoing rehabilitation of soldiers’ quarters in both cantonments.