GOC Stresses Mastery of Basic Military Skills for Nigerian Army’s Future
Addressing a gathering of over 500 young officers undergoing conversion exercises at Headquarters 3 Division Maxwell Khobe Cantonment in Jos, Major General AE Abubakar, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division Nigerian Army and Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH), emphasized the critical role of mastering basic military skills in preparing for emerging security challenges.
Major General Abubakar highlighted the necessity for officers to be proficient in basic military skills, physical fitness, and mental preparedness to effectively tackle the evolving security landscape in Nigeria. He underscored the importance of the conversion exercise in the career progression of Nigerian Army Officers, particularly those aspiring to serve beyond the specified service years outlined in the Harmonised Terms and Conditions of Service.
Explaining the significance of the conversion exercise, Major General Abubakar noted that it provides candidates, especially those under the Short Service Commission and Direct Short Service Commission, with the opportunity to transition to Regular Combatant and Direct Regular Commissions within the Nigerian Army. He elaborated on the rigorous assessments, including physical, laboratory, and radiological examinations, designed to evaluate candidates’ fitness in alignment with the Nigerian Army’s requirements.
Expressing gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General TA Lagbaja NAM, for entrusting 3 Division with hosting the event, Major General Abubakar expressed confidence in the dedication and capabilities of the young officers undergoing the conversion process. He urged them to approach the opportunity with diligence and commitment, recognizing their pivotal role in shaping the future of the Nigerian Army and safeguarding the nation’s security interests.
Congratulating the candidates on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff, Major General Abubakar charged them to uphold the highest standards of regimentation, discipline, and carriage throughout the exercise. He sternly warned against any form of cheating, emphasizing the integrity of the process, especially during physical and skill-at-arms tests.
Major General Abubakar reassured the candidates that the Nigerian Army leadership had adequately prepared them for the exercise through organized cadre sessions aimed at equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel during the Conversion Board. He urged the candidates to apply the knowledge and experience gained from the cadre sessions effectively.
The conversion exercise is scheduled to last for two weeks, during which candidates will undergo comprehensive evaluations to determine their suitability for transitioning to higher ranks within the Nigerian Army.