COAS to troops: your job on the Plateau is critical to national stability
By: Zagazola Makama
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has charged troops of 3 Division, Nigerian Army, to remain disciplined, committed and professional, saying their role in addressing security challenges on the Plateau is critical to national stability.
Shaibu gave the charge on Monday during an operational visit to 3 Division headquarters in Jos.
Addressing officers and soldiers, the COAS emphasised that discipline remained the bedrock of the military profession, noting that service in the Nigerian Army was voluntary and rooted in the noble duty of defending the nation’s territorial integrity.
He said he had been briefed by the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 3 Division, on the operational and welfare challenges confronting the troops, adding that the most pressing issues had been addressed.
According to him, Army Headquarters is providing the necessary combat enablers to ensure personnel are adequately equipped to carry out their responsibilities effectively.
“The welfare of our troops remains a top priority. We will continue to provide the enabling environment for you to do your job properly,” he said.
Shaibu urged young soldiers to respect the chain of command and draw guidance from their superiors, noting that officers were responsible for mentoring them toward successful military careers.
He also charged troops to maintain high standards of physical fitness and mental alertness, explaining that deliberate measures had been put in place to prepare them for the demands of military service.
Highlighting leadership at all levels, the COAS described senior non-commissioned officers as the vital link between officers and soldiers, urging them to provide effective middle-level leadership and guidance.
On ongoing operations in Plateau State, he described the security situation as unique, assuring troops that Operation Enduring Peace was being properly guided and supported to achieve its mandate.
He further encouraged personnel to channel concerns and grievances through the appropriate chain of command, assuring them that such issues would be promptly addressed.
The COAS reaffirmed that the sacrifices of troops were appreciated by the nation, urging them to remain proud of their service and to carry out their duties with professionalism and honour, in line with global best practices.
Shaibu also commissioned two blocks of 30 flats for non-commissioned officers and a separate block of residential accommodation for officers at Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, Jos, as part of ongoing efforts to enhance the welfare and living conditions of soldiers.
