The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has highlighted the need to cultivate combat-ready soldiers in the Nigerian Army to strengthen operational capacity.
Shaibu made the remarks while inaugurating a seminar on enhancing warrior ethos, managing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and addressing drug and substance abuse at the Jaji Military Cantonment in Kaduna State on Wednesday.
He described warrior ethos as a core component of the Army’s operational success.
The COAS reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to leading the fight against terrorism and insurgency to safeguard national security.
Representing Shaibu at the event was Maj.-Gen. Ademola Adedoja, Commandant of the Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre (MLAILPKC).
The seminar, organised by the Army Headquarters Department of Transformation and Innovation, carried the theme, “From Trauma to Triumph: Building Combat-Ready Warriors in the NA.” Its goal was to boost the resilience, discipline, and overall fighting capability of Army personnel.
Shaibu praised the initiative, noting that it would enhance the Army’s operational effectiveness and maintain a strategic edge in addressing evolving security threats. He emphasized the importance of mental toughness, courage, and unwavering dedication for mission success.
He further explained that integrating field experiences with intellectual reflection and doctrinal innovation allows the Army to refine strategies essential for sustaining national stability.
The seminar also addressed critical issues such as PTSD and drug abuse, which can undermine troop welfare and combat readiness. Shaibu urged attendees to leverage the training to strengthen their professional skills and operational efficiency.
The COAS acknowledged President Bola Tinubu for his consistent support and strategic guidance to the Nigerian Army.
Maj.-Gen. Olusegun Abai, Chief of Transformation and Innovation Army, noted that the seminar aimed to enhance leadership skills among junior and mid-level officers while instilling a strong warrior ethos. He was represented by Maj.-Gen. Mohammed Danja, Director of Lessons Learned, Department of Transformation and Innovation Army.
The sessions included lectures on intensifying warrior ethos and mental toughness, understanding the effects of drug and substance abuse on operational effectiveness, overcoming PTSD in the Army, and interactive discussions.
Participants were encouraged to adopt lessons from the seminar to enhance readiness, resilience, and overall combat capability.