CHIEF OF ARMY STAFF EMPHASIZES INTEGRATION OF DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY IN MILITARY OPERATIONS

Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Chief of Army Staff (COAS), has underscored the necessity of integrating digital technology into military operations as an essential strategy for enhancing effectiveness. In his opening address at a seminar on Digital Transformation and the Smart Soldier Concept, held on September 12, 2024, at Headquarters 3 Division, Maxwell Khobe Cantonment in Jos, General Lagbaja highlighted the Nigerian Army's (NA) commitment to modernization through advanced technologies and equipment.

General Lagbaja emphasized that the seminar is a key component of the NA’s ongoing effort to leverage cutting-edge technologies to modernize military operations, refine decision-making processes, and adapt to evolving security challenges. He described the concept of a "smart soldier" as one who benefits from enhanced situational awareness, real-time information sharing, and sophisticated communication systems. He further stressed that transformation involves more than just adopting new technologies; it requires cultivating a culture of innovation and adaptability.

Represented by Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division Nigerian Army and Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN, the COAS reiterated that the seminar aligns with his command philosophy: "To Transform the NA into a well-trained, equipped, and highly motivated force to fulfill our constitutional duties in a joint environment." General Lagbaja also commended the troops for their dedication to combating insecurity in the Plateau region and reaffirmed his commitment to enhancing troop welfare and national security.

In his welcome address, Major General Zakari Abubakar, Chief of Transformation and Innovation, Department of Army Transformation and Innovation, outlined the seminar's objective to raise awareness about the integration of digital technologies into NA operations. He emphasized that the seminar would introduce officers and soldiers to the potential applications of advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence and data analysis in military settings.

Major General Adewale Adetoba, Deputy Chief of Transformation and Innovation, noted that the seminar aims to boost the decision-making capabilities and resource management skills of junior and mid-level officers in a rapidly evolving environment.
Guest speakers Major General AA Ayannuga, Major General BA Alabi, and Mr. Egwa Godwin delivered lectures on "Leveraging Digital Transformation for Enhanced Operational Effectiveness in the NA: OPSH in Perspective," "Warrior Ethos," and "The Effect of Drug Abuse on Operational Effectiveness in the Nigerian Army." They concurred that the core functions of a soldier are to combat and defeat threats to the state. They also highlighted that digital technology, professional competence, adherence to NA core values, and managing the effects of drug abuse are vital for reinforcing a smart soldier and warrior ethos.