By Ankeli Emmanuel, Sokoto
In a pivotal statement at a recent seminar, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu underscored the significance of a robust warrior ethos in enhancing the combat readiness and operational effectiveness of the Nigerian Army. The seminar, aptly titled “Warrior Ethos: A Tool for Building Unit Cohesion and a Combat-Ready Force,” was convened by the Army Headquarters’ Department of Transformation and Innovation and held at the Headquarters 8 Division Auditorium.
A Call to Action for Military Readiness
Addressing senior officers and soldiers from the Theatre Command of Joint Task Force North-West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA (OPFY), Lieutenant General Shaibu, represented by Theatre Commander Major General Warrah Idris, articulated the necessity of instilling a strong warrior ethos. This ethos, he asserted, is grounded in core military values such as fortitude, selfless service, vigilance, and both mental and physical resilience—all fundamental for achieving operational success.
The COAS emphasised that these values must be cultivated at the unit level, fostering not only cohesion but also readiness among troops. He cautioned that issues such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and drug abuse are significant threats that undermine military performance and effectiveness.
Seminar as a Strategic Intervention
The seminar was described by Lieutenant General Shaibu as a timely intervention, providing a vital platform for reflection, knowledge sharing, and the development of strategies aimed at strengthening the military force. By addressing the human dimension of military operations, the COAS highlighted the importance of maintaining not only physical readiness but also psychological wellbeing among troops.
In his welcome address, Major General Samson Abai, Chief of Transformation and Innovation (Army), affirmed the seminar’s alignment with the COAS’s vision to transform the Nigerian Army into a professional, adaptable, and resilient force. He elaborated on the focus of the event, which concentrated on addressing the mental and psychological pressures faced by troops during prolonged operations, ultimately enhancing both unit cohesion and combat readiness.
Expert Insights on Key Issues
The seminar featured presentations from three distinguished lecturers with extensive operational expertise:
1. Major General Charles Ofoche (rtd)** discussed “Intensifying Warrior Ethos and Mental Toughness,” offering insights into how cultivating a warrior mindset can significantly impact troop performance.
2. Abdulrazak Umar**, Deputy Commander of the Narcotics Sokoto Command, addressed “Effect of Drug Abuse on Nigerian Army Operational Effectiveness.” His presentation highlighted the dire consequences of substance abuse on military capability and operational integrity.
3. Lieutenant Colonel Dr Suzan Dibal (rtd)** focused on “Overcoming Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder,” providing strategies for recognising and managing PTSD among soldiers to enhance their mental resilience.
Building Networks and Fostering Cohesion
Throughout the seminar, attendees engaged in interactive sessions and discussions, fostering a collaborative environment aimed at sharing experiences and strategies. Networking opportunities during tea and lunch breaks allowed participants to build connections and discuss the importance of a unified approach to military challenges.
The event concluded with the presentation of souvenirs to distinguished guests, serving as a token of appreciation for their contributions and participation in this crucial dialogue.
A Vision for the Future
Lieutenant General Shaibu’s emphasis on a strong warrior ethos reflects a broader commitment to transforming the Nigerian Army into a force that not only excels in combat but also prioritises the wellbeing of its personnel. By addressing the mental health challenges faced by soldiers and reinforcing core military values, the Nigerian Army is poised to enhance its operational effectiveness significantly.
In conclusion, the seminar on warrior ethos has underscored the imperative for a cohesive, resilient military force equipped to face the challenges of modern warfare. As the Nigerian Army continues to evolve, the integration of mental resilience and a robust warrior ethos will be crucial in ensuring that troops remain not just combat-ready but also psychologically prepared to undertake their duties effectively. This commitment to holistic military development will undoubtedly play a vital role in the Army’s future success.
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By focusing on these critical elements, the Nigerian Army is not only addressing immediate concerns but also laying the groundwork for sustained operational excellence in the years to come.
