The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, on Monday, declared open the 2024 COAS Conference in Abuja with a promise that the military high command under his leadership would prioritize measures to enhance the welfare, physical, and mental well-being of personnel in the Service.
Gen. Oluyede also revealed plans to adopt a systematic rotation approach for soldiers on the frontline in 2025 to prevent operational fatigue and sustain their morale.
According to him, “I am dedicated to maintaining systematic troop rotations to relieve personnel who have overstayed in the field and introduce fresh forces into our operational theatres. This practice is essential for preserving the physical and mental well-being of our troops, preventing fatigue, boosting morale across the Force, and ultimately enhancing operational effectiveness.”
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The COAS also reassured Nigerians that the Army would scale up its operations in 2025, pledging the sustained acquisition of platforms and combat enablers to further enhance its capabilities.
He added, “I am determined to ensure that under my leadership, the Nigerian Army remains steadfast and unwavering in its commitment to addressing the challenges facing our great nation. Our determination to protect Nigeria’s territorial integrity must be stronger than ever, and we will relentlessly pursue excellence in ensuring the safety and well-being of all Nigerians.”
“To this end, the Nigerian Army will upscale both kinetic and non-kinetic efforts across all theatres of operations in the coming year to ensure peace is completely restored across the country.”
“Furthermore, the Army Headquarters’ reinvigorated drive towards the refurbishment of combat enablers such as the T-72 tanks, Armoured Personnel Carriers, and artillery pieces has further enhanced the serviceability of our platforms, correspondingly impacting our operational effectiveness. Accordingly, I hope to sustain the acquisition of requisite platforms and other combat enablers in the coming year to further enhance the Army’s combat effectiveness.”
He also mentioned plans to enhance support systems for soldiers and their families, including widows and dependents of fallen heroes.
“I am fully committed to upholding and, whenever possible, enhancing the existing welfare support schemes, including those for the widows and next-of-kin of our fallen heroes, as well as for personnel who have incurred disabilities in the line of duty.”
“This commitment includes timely financial assistance, access to healthcare, educational sponsorship for children or dependents of personnel, and other essential services aimed at providing stability to those affected by the sacrifices of our courageous colleagues. By prioritizing these welfare initiatives, we honour their service and reinforce our duty of care, ensuring that the families of our fallen and injured personnel are respected.”
As part of welfare programs, the COAS presented cheques worth millions of naira to the next-of-kin of deceased personnel under the Group Life Insurance scheme.
In addition, Gen. Oluyede presented Hilux vehicles to 12 Regimental Sergeant Majors as part of his welfare schemes to boost the morale of soldiers.
He also stated that the Army would continue to support personnel who have incurred disabilities in the line of duty.
