By Abubakar Yunusa, Abuja
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal Hassan Bala Abubakar has called on junior officers of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to uphold the highest level of discipline, including respect for the rule of law and human rights, in their service to the nation.
AVM Abubakar made the call during the graduation ceremony of participants of the Junior Division Course 95/2023 of the Armed Forces Command and College, Jaji.
CAS noted that the nation has higher expectations of the military as the government strives to tackle insecurity and restore the economy, urging them to adhere to the Armed Forces Act, Standard Operating Procedures and Rules of Engagement for various operations as framework to guide their activities particularly their participation in counter insurgency, counter-terrorism and anti-banditry operations.
He also tasked the graduating officers as they return to their units to develop a good sense of judgment in using their abilities, which he noted would be more helpful now than ever, as they will be given higher appointments and duties that will push the limits of the knowledge and abilities acquired while on the course.
While congratulating the graduating officers, particularly those from sister African countries, the CAS urged them to build on the good time they had had in Nigeria to foster their connections, which he said will significantly advance bilateral ties and increasing military collaboration among the various countries in tackling emerging transnational security threats in Africa.
Meanwhile, the Junior Staff Course is designed to provide a solid foundation and prepare the participants ready for staff and field work at the tactical level.
As a result, officers of the rank of Captain and equivalents are trained to perform staff functions and junior-level management of men and resources by developing their communication, analytical and leadership skills. A total of 314 officers comprising 157 from the Nigerian Army, 57 from the Nigerian Navy and 84 from the Nigerian Air Force participated in the just concluded course.
Others include 10 students from paramilitary organizations and 6 officers from sister African countries comprising Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ghana, Gambia, and the Republic of Zambia. The CAS graced the graduation ceremony held on Friday 23 June 2023 as the Special Guest of Honour.
