Pulse.ng : COAS to soldiers : Be creative in tackling security challenges

By Muhammad Tijjani

The Chief of Army Staff(COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja has officers and men to be innovative and creative in tackling and resolving the security challenges currently confronting Nigeria.

Lagbaja gave the charge at the graduation ceremony of 80 Warrant Officers at the Warrant Officers’ Academy Course 43 on Friday at Jaji Military Cantonment, Kaduna State.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), that the Army chief was represented by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division, Nigerian Army (NA), Maj.-Gen. Mayirenso Saraso.

He said, “This graduation marks yet another milestone in the history of the academy and its contributions to the ongoing transformation efforts of the Nigerian Army (NA) through effective training of Senior Non Commissioned Officers, SNCOs.

“That will enable them to better discharge their responsibilities and bridge the gap between the soldiers and officers cadre.

“The role played by this institution is more critical at this time when our country is faced with myriads of security challenges.”

Lagbaja said the academy has so far been able to achieve this through focused training that has prepared its graduates to confront challenges in line with his philosophy.

He said, “To transform the NA into a well-trained, equipped and highly motivated force towards achieving our constitutional responsibilities within a joint environment.

”I wish to congratulate the graduands for their commitment and diligence in ensuring the success of this course.”

He charged them to bridge the knowledge and leadership gaps between the officers and soldiers in their various units and formations.

”Accordingly, it is hoped that the training you have undergone will reflect in your confidence, comportment, skills and overall bearing while discharging your responsibilities in the field.

“I have no doubts that you are now better prepared to earnestly contribute in ensuring better administration and more efficient operations in your respective
units and formations,” the COAS added.

Lagbaja also charged them to employ the knowledge and skills acquired to project their leadership and managerial capabilities for the benefit of the Army and the Armed Forces.

“I am privy to the fact that for the first time, four personnel of the Nigerian Air force are among the graduands for today’s ceremony.

“I am equally aware that among the graduates is a personnel of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Liberia while another Senior Non-Commissioned Officer from Liberia will be for the next course in July, ” Lagbaja said.

He urged that hands must continue to be on the deck to ensure that the Nigerian Army continues to achieve its mission.

”This is winning all the land battles in the defence of the country’s territorial integrity and protection of its interest thereby providing the required security for our dear nation, ” Lagbaja said.

The COAS appreciated President Bola Tinubu for his encouragement and continued support to the Nigerian Army in its resolve at repositioning the army for effective service delivery.

” Indeed, Mr President’s continued support to the Nigerian Army has significantly enhanced the combat effectiveness and morale of troops, “Lagbaja said.

Earlier, the Commandant of the academy, Brig.-Gen. Auwal Mahmuda , said the course was assembled in Jan. 8.

Mahmuda said it comprised 80 students made up of 75 Warrant Officers and SNCOs of the NA, 4 Warrant Officers and SNCOs from the NAF and a Master Sergeant from the Republic of Liberia.

He said the 22-week course covered intense field training designed to enhance the capacity of warrant officers and Senior non-commissioned officers.

Mahmuda also said this was also aimed at developing the leadership and management skills of the students.

This is in order to equip them to efficiently interpret and communicate command decisions down the line, thereby bridging the gap between the officers and soldiers’ cadre.

Mahmuda said , “We shall continue to improve on the instructional curricular, facilities and environment in order to ensure that the training offered here is mission-oriented and beneficial.”

The commandant appreciated the Army chief for the tremendous support given to the Academy.

“Most recent intervention aimed at providing an access road, landscaping and car park for the newly constructed student hostel is greatly appreciated, “Mahmuda said.

NAN reports that awards were presented to the soldiers who distinguished themselves during the course.(NAN)