The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, asserted that the Nigerian Army is poised to receive helicopters and other combat enablers with the primary objective of enhancing national security.
Lagbaja conveyed this significant development during a specially convened luncheon held for frontline troops in Port Harcourt, the capital of Rivers State, on Monday.
He expressed commendation towards the men and officers of the Nigerian Army, acknowledging their unwavering courage and resilience in the face of adversity, as well as their steadfast faith in the nation.
Represented at the event by Major General Kevin Aligbe, the Commander of the Training and Doctrine Command, Nigerian Army, the Chief of Army Staff underscored that the Army headquarters has undertaken various welfare initiatives designed to directly improve the quality of life for Nigerian soldiers.
The COAS stated, “It is a fact that over 50,000 of our colleagues will miss wishing their families and loved ones a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year in person this season, not because they do not want to, but because they will be on duty in difficult to access towns, villages and hamlets across the country and beyond.
“Judging by the programmes and policies of the Federal Government, the year ahead holds numerous prospects for Nigeria and the military.”
Continuing, Lagbaja said, “The incoming year, the Nigerian Army expects to take delivery of its helicopters and other combat enablers that will see better security developed across the entire country.
“The security challenges in the country, so much have been done and we are winning on all fronts but they are still a lot more to be done.
“So we are going to focus on training to meet those challenges to ensure that Nigeria returns to the good old days where they can travel freely across the country and sleep with their two eyes closed.”
Previously, Major General Jamal Abdussalam, the General Officer Commanding the 6 Division Nigeria Army in Port Harcourt, affirmed that the Army’s operational endeavors have resulted in a sustained increase in the oil production quota over a considerable duration.
Assuring stakeholders, Major General Abdussalam reiterated the commitment of the 6 Division Nigerian Army to conduct its operations in strict accordance with global best practices. He emphasized adherence to the code of conduct, rules of engagement, and a steadfast commitment to upholding fundamental human rights.
Issuing a stern warning, he cautioned criminal elements responsible for the fatal shooting of four soldiers in Ahoada, Rivers State, that they will face severe consequences for their actions, reinforcing the uncompromising stance against those who threaten the security and well-being of the nation.
He added, “Our troops have been involved in various kinetic and non-kinetic activities that have considerably shaped the operating environment, with their attendant operational hazards.
“Key among these hazards are loss of precious lives of our dear colleagues, occasional Ioss and damage of equipment.
“You are all aware that most recently we lost four of our gallant soldiers to the criminal activities of militants, unwarranted and unprovoked attacks.”
Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State, represented by his deputy, Professor Ngozi Ordu, expressed commendation towards the Nigerian Army for their sacrifices. The governor assured that the state government remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting the Army and collaborating with sister agencies to enhance and fortify the security apparatus in the state. This affirmation underscores the government’s unwavering dedication to fostering a secure environment through cooperation with the armed forces and allied agencies.