Ibadan: The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has tasked junior and middle cadre army personnel on operational effectiveness to ensure the success of Nigerian Army operations and enhance the nation’s security. Oluyede made this call while declaring open a seminar on Transformational Leadership, organised by the Department of Army Transformation and Innovation, Nigerian Army Headquarters, in Ibadan.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the seminar, themed ‘Transformational Leadership and Nigerian Army Operational Effectiveness in a Joint and Multi-Agency Environment,’ aims to strengthen leadership roles within the army’s ranks. Represented by Maj.-Gen. O.S. Abai, Chief of Transformation and Innovation (Army), Oluyede highlighted the pivotal role that junior and middle cadre personnel play in shaping operational outcomes and achieving strategic objectives.
The COAS reiterated the Nigerian Army’s leading position in combating terrorism and insurgency, while maintaining peace and security across the nation. He emphasized that the evolving security landscape in Nigeria necessitates a comprehensive approach to leadership and army operations.
Oluyede underscored the importance of continuous learning from seminars and on-the-job experiences, asserting that these efforts are timely for junior and middle cadre army personnel. He stressed the central role these commanders play in the success of army operations and national security.
The COAS urged participants to apply the knowledge gained from the seminar to improve operations and enhance national security. He noted that the seminar would also address issues such as drug substance abuse and post-traumatic stress disorder, which impede combat readiness.
Earlier, Maj.-Gen. Abai stated that the seminar aims to bolster leadership efforts to reposition the Nigerian Army, focusing on discipline and professional standards. Represented by Brig.-Gen. I.E. Apkaumantia, Deputy Director Operation, Analysis, Department of Army Transformation and Innovation, Abai highlighted the importance of institutionalizing mentorship to develop future leaders within the army.