Army Chief Hails Troops Over Dedication To National Security

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has commended the officers and soldiers of 130 Battalion and 341 Artillery Regiment, Ogoja, Cross River State, for their resilience and commitment to national security.

He urged them to make more sacrifices for the nation.

Oluyede gave the commendation on Tuesday during an operational visit to Godwin Ally Barracks, Ogoja.

In a statement by the director of Army Public Relations, Lt-Col Appolonia Anele, the Army chief said the visit formed part of his assessment tour of Nigerian Army formations and units under the 82 Division Area of Operational Responsibility.

Anele said the COAS inspected key facilities during the visit, interacted with the troops, and expressed appreciation for their sacrifices in defending the nation despite challenging operational demands.

“Lieutenant General Oluyede, who is passionate about the education of soldiers’ children and wards, disclosed that he is investing significant resources to revamp schools in the barracks to provide their children with first-class education,” she said.

Anele added that the Army boss also directed the immediate renovation of dilapidated accommodations to improve the living conditions of soldiers and their families.

Oluyede emphasised that under his leadership, the Nigerian Army remains committed to improving the living and working conditions of its personnel while equipping them to tackle evolving security challenges effectively.

He noted that the recent increase in the Ration Cash Allowance has enabled commanders to provide better feeding for soldiers. Therefore, he expects them to reciprocate by giving their best in the discharge of their duties.

The COAS also informed the soldiers of ongoing efforts to provide all Nigerian Army personnel with new sets of uniforms and essential military kits to enable them to perform their duties seamlessly.

He explained that these measures are part of deliberate efforts to standardise operational readiness, enhance morale, reinforce esprit de corps, and entrench his “Soldiers First” mantra.

Oluyede charged the troops to uphold the highest standards of discipline and professionalism, while fostering synergy with sister security agencies and host communities, stressing that such collaboration is vital to achieving lasting peace and stability in the region.