Army To Induct More Combatants Against Terrorists, Bandits

Chief of Army Staff Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede has said the Nigerian Army would in the next couple of weeks induct more combat enablers into its operations to end the menace of Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists, banditry, kidnapping and other forms of criminality in the nation.

He said there was the need to understand that the strength of the Nigerian Army does not solely lie in the weapons they place on the battlefield, but more in the will of soldiers who wield them.

Oluyede spoke yesterday at the end of the 2025 COAS first bi-annual conference which took place at the Command Guest House, Maiduguri, in Borno State.

The event which had robust engagement was attended by top army officers and heads of various army formations across the country.

Declaring the conference closed, General Oluyede said, “You will recall that I stated in my address yesterday that this gathering was to afford participants the opportunity to identify areas for improvement and

proffer practical solutions that will strengthen our effectiveness in securing our nation.

“It is worthy to note that the depth of discourse and clarity of thought expressed during our sessions reflected the intellectual rigour and strategic foresight required to thrust the Nigerian Army into a future filled with unprecedented possibilities.

“I, therefore, make bold to say that the objectives of this first bi-annual conference have largely been achieved judging by the well-articulated inputs and contributions that have surpassed my expectations, as concerted efforts would be made to implement these suggested measures in our current and future engagements.

“As a fallout of our deliberations, the Nigerian Army will in the coming weeks, induct more combat enablers into our operations.

“Accordingly, it behoves on everyone seated here to show exemplary leadership, to mentor and guide the next generation on the right path.

“We will play our role and there will come a time where it will be their turn to take the reins of leadership at every level. Hence, our actions today, will resonate in the future and our achievements will form the foundation of their beginning.

“Today, we are faced with an adversary that threatens the very fabric of our socio- cultural heritage. They seek to disrupt our way of life and destroy the society that our forefathers built.

“We will not allow such to happen. There is no contesting our decision to completely neutralize these detractors to peace. Thus, I charge each and every officer and soldier to spare no quarter in running these terrorists and criminals to the ground,” he stated.

The COAS commended President Bola Tinubu, state governors, top army officers and soldiers, paramilitary and other security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders and all stakeholders for their unwavering support to ensure peace, security and development of the entire nation.

He also lauded the organisers of the conference and the Chief Host, who is the Theatre Commander, North East ‘Operation Hadin Kai’, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar for their tireless efforts which led to the successful engagement.

Highlight of the closing ceremony was presentation of awards and souvenirs to some officers who distinguished themselves in the course of discharging their duties.