1 week ago
27
From Abel Leonard, Lafia
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede, has reaffirmed his commitment to enhancing the welfare of troops and ensuring the security of Nigeria. During a routine visit to the 123 Special Forces Battalion headquarters in Doma, Nasarawa State on Tuesday, Oluyede urged soldiers to remain resolute in their mission to combat insecurity and restore peace across the country.
Addressing the troops, the Army Chief emphasized the need for unity, dedication, and proactive engagement in tackling security threats.
“I want to get from you today a corporate agreement that we will work together. I will do my part as your leader to make things better for you, and you, as my soldiers, must do your part,” Oluyede stated.
He acknowledged the sacrifices of the soldiers and assured them of his experience in various operational theaters. “There is nothing new to me. I have been to all theaters. We must come together collectively to see this mission through so that we can return to the barracks and focus on our core duty of protecting Nigeria,” he added.
Oluyede further highlighted the evolving nature of security threats, particularly in the internal space. “Most of the work we are doing now has to do with internal security. Our job is to lead, and we must lead well. Nigerians are looking up to us to make Nigeria safer, and that we must do,” he stressed.
The COAS expressed concern over rising insecurity in parts of the country, particularly the fear of kidnappings along major routes. “We cannot afford to live in a country where one cannot move from Doma to Lafia without fear of being kidnapped. That must stop. All these bad elements making Nigeria unsafe must be eliminated,” he declared.
He reiterated the Nigerian Army’s commitment to restoring the nation’s security, stating, “Nigeria is not a place for criminals. Nigeria is a beautiful land, and we must restore that beauty together.”
On the welfare of soldiers, Oluyede assured troops of improvements in accommodation and other essential needs. “I have told your commander that, by next week—by Thursday—something will come here. Initially, I approved three blocks, but I have now decided to build five blocks for you,” he announced.
Encouraging open communication, the COAS urged soldiers to speak up about their challenges. “If you have any problem, raise your hand. Do not sit down and grumble. I don’t want soldiers who grumble; I want soldiers who speak out so that we can solve problems together,” he stated.
He concluded his address by motivating the troops to remain focused and determined. “Do I assume there are no problems? Are you good to go?” he asked, to which the soldiers responded in unison, affirming their readiness.
The Sun reports that the visit to the 123 Special Forces Battalion is part of the Army Chief’s ongoing efforts to assess troop welfare and operational effectiveness in various formations across the country. He used the opportunity to commission the RMS House, LT General Tal House amongst others.
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