Insecurity: COAS charges field commanders on preparedness

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, in a bid to address the evolving security challenges facing the country, has charged field commanders and senior leaders of the Nigerian Army to intensify their preparedness and regularly review contingency plans.

COAS gave the charge while speaking at the second senior command leadership seminar held in Abuja.

The COAS, represented by the Director General of the Nigerian Army Heritage and Future Center, Major General Obinna Ajunwa, emphasized the need for the Nigerian Army to adapt to the changing security landscape, which now includes threats beyond traditional battlefields.

He urged field commanders to focus on developing capabilities to effectively tackle emerging security issues and build a robust ‘future force.’

The seminar, themed “Enhancing Operational Level Commander and Leadership within a Joint Environment,” centered on key aspects of command and leadership essential for operational efficiency in complex environments.

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General Lagbaja highlighted the importance of aligning with his command philosophy to “transform the Nigerian Army into a well-trained, equipped, and highly motivated force towards achieving our constitutional responsibilities within a joint environment.”

Earlier, Commander of Army Headquarters Garrison, Major General Koko Isoni, emphasized the significance of fostering collaboration and the exchange of ideas among senior commanders to address operational challenges.

He added that the seminar would provide a platform for experts to share insights on contemporary security issues and propose solutions to enhance the army’s operational effectiveness.

The first day of the seminar featured lectures on “Operational Level Command and Leadership in the Contemporary Security Environment in Nigeria,” delivered by Major General Olufemi Akinjobi (retired), and “Fundamentals of Leadership for Senior Army Officers,” by Professor Okey Ikechukwu. The two lectures also dovetailed into thought-provoking interactive sessions among participants.