Army Chief charges commanders on innovative security strategies amid evolving threats
By: Zagazola Makama
With the nation still grappling with security challenges in various regions, the Nigerian Army is turning inward to strengthen its capabilities through strategic innovation and leadership dialogue.
On Thursday, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, convened the COAS Biannual Conference in Maiduguri, the epicentre of Nigeria’s long-standing counter-insurgency operations.
At the heart of the high-level meeting was a strong charge from the Army Chief: develop practical solutions that will improve the Army’s operational effectiveness and preserve national peace and security.
Held at the Command Guest House in Maiduguri, the conference brought together senior officers from across formations and units to review the Army’s current posture and confront emerging threats with renewed tactical and strategic thinking.
“During the deliberation on topical issues, our goal will be to identify areas for improvement and develop practical solutions that will strengthen our effectiveness in safeguarding the nation’s peace and security,” Oluyede told the assembled generals.
According to the COAS, the Nigerian Army must continuously evolve, especially in light of the dynamic nature of the current operating environment where insurgents and bandits are adapting faster and deploying unconventional methods.
“It is evident that the terrorists have adopted new strategies that are aimed at shaping the battle space in their favour,” he said.
Oluyede paid tribute to soldiers who had paid the supreme price in the ongoing operations, noting that their sacrifices underscore the magnitude of the task at hand and the weight of national expectations.
“The loss of these brave men is deeply regrettable and serves as a painful reminder of the depth of sacrifice that the officers and men of the Nigerian Army continue to make in the defence of our great nation,” he said.
Yet, despite the losses and challenges, Oluyede insisted that the Army’s spirit remains undaunted. He stressed the importance of inter-agency collaboration, particularly with the Navy, Air Force, and other security institutions, as essential to the success of joint operations across the country.
“As the Nigerian Army continues to prioritise its efforts for the best possible results, the ability to collaborate with the Nigerian Navy, the Nigerian Air Force, other security agencies and institutions at the federal and state levels, have aided us in fulfilling our mandate,” he added.
He acknowledged the support from both federal and state governments, describing it as a key driver of operational momentum and morale.
In a symbolic show of commitment to operational readiness, Gen. Oluyede also unveiled five brand new armoured vehicles to bolster the combat capabilities of troops under Operation Hadin Kai, the flagship theatre of counterterrorism operations in the North-East.
The COAS concluded with a reaffirmation of the Army’s resolve, saying: “The victory against the nameless and faceless reprobates is absolute.”
The conference is expected to yield actionable recommendations that would shape the Army’s trajectory in the months ahead, particularly in its drive to eliminate terrorism, banditry, and other forms of violent extremism.
