The Nigerian Army has issued a cautionary statement to its personnel, advising against the use of performance-enhancing supplements or drugs.
Major General Adewale Adekeye, Chief of Personnel Management (Army), delivered this message during the launch of the 2025 promotion exercise for Warrant Officers to Master Warrant Officers at the Nigerian Army Cantonment in Ibadan on Friday.
Maj. Gen. Adekeye emphasized that the promotion process should not be viewed as a matter of life and death, urging officers to refrain from any unethical practices that could jeopardize their health. He underscored the potential dangers associated with using such enhancement substances.
He encouraged participants facing any medical issues to disclose them to the medical screening committee for timely assistance, reiterating that their well-being is of utmost importance to the Nigerian Army and their families.
“I encourage you to trust the system, as represented by the board members, to ensure that only those who are genuinely qualified will be promoted,” he stated. “I am confident that all participants have adequately prepared for this exercise and expect to see warrant officers uphold the highest standards of discipline.”
Maj. Gen. Adekeye further urged against any form of cheating, warning that attempts to seek undue advantage during the promotion process would lead to disqualification. He called on the board members to maintain objectivity and professionalism throughout the selection process.
He noted the significant responsibilities that come with the role of Master Warrant Officer, highlighting the board’s unique opportunity to select individuals who will excel in these duties. Participants will be required to undergo mandatory medical evaluations to confirm their mental and physical readiness for the demanding activities associated with the promotion exercise.
The Chief of Personnel Management outlined additional components of the promotion process, including weapon handling, drill, current affairs, and general service knowledge.
Approximately 490 warrant officers from various formations and units of the Nigerian Army have been registered for the promotion exercise, with more expected to join.
In his remarks, Major General Chinedu Nnebeife, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 2 Division, commended Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede for selecting the division as the venue for the promotion exercise. He informed participants that they would undergo a thorough yet fair selection process lasting two to three weeks within the cantonment and encouraged them to perform at their best to achieve promotion to the Master Officer rank.
He concluded by stating that the board would assess their abilities, technical skills, and leadership qualities in light of the evolving security challenges.
(NAN)
