Defence
GOC Stresses Mastery of Basic Military Skills for Nigerian Army’s Future
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.
GOC Stresses Mastery of Basic Military Skills for Nigerian Army’s Future
President Bola Tinubu has announced the passing of Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, who died at age 56.
According to a statement by the President’s spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, the Army Chief passed away on Tuesday night in Lagos after battling an illness.
In his message of condolence, President Tinubu extended heartfelt sympathies to Lagbaja’s family and the Nigerian Armed Forces, honoring his “significant contributions to the nation.”
The President wished the late General eternal peace and recognized his dedicated service during this difficult time for the military and the nation.
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has refuted claims of an acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS), clarifying that no such appointment exists within the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
This was disclosed in a statement issued by the Acting Director of Defence Information, Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau, on Monday in Abuja.
Gusau emphasised that the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, had spoken with the COAS, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, a few minutes prior to the statement, confirming that the Army Chief is currently enjoying a well-deserved rest as part of his 2024 annual leave.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria is professionally managed, and all Service Chiefs are performing their duties in line with the Constitution,” Gusau said.
He also clarified that Maj.-Gen. Abdulsalam Ibrahim, the Chief of Policy and Plans, has been providing routine briefs to the COAS in accordance with standard military procedures.
Gusau urged individuals spreading false information to desist immediately, reassuring the public that “the COAS is hale and hearty and will soon resume normal duties after his leave.”
He further called on media outlets to verify information with appropriate authorities before disseminating false reports.
In a strong warning, Gusau noted that any calls for a military takeover are treasonous under the Constitution, adding that “The Armed Forces remain loyal to President Bola Tinubu’s administration and are committed to the preservation and advancement of democracy in Nigeria.”
He added that the relative peace currently enjoyed in the country is a direct result of President Tinubu’s support for the military and the leadership of the Armed Forces.
Gusau concluded by stating that the military, alongside relevant security agencies, has been mandated to act against any individuals or groups advocating unconstitutional changes in governance.
“The CDS appreciates the continued support and prayers of Nigerians. Victory is assured,” he said.
Nigerian Army Debunks Rumoured Death of COAS Lagbaja, Labels Reports as ‘Mischief’
The Nigerian Army has firmly dismissed rumors circulating on social media about the death of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja.
The rumours, attributed to a post by one Jackson Ude, were labeled “Fake News” by the army on its official X handle on Sunday.
Speculations had spread that the Army Chief passed away in an undisclosed hospital abroad, with no official confirmation from the military or the Defence Headquarters.
In response, Maj.-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, the Director of Army Public Relations, clarified that the COAS is on leave and attending to his health outside the country.
“There is no leadership vacuum in the Nigerian Army,” Nwachukwu emphasised, adding that Maj.-Gen. Abdulsalam Ibrahim, Chief of Policy and Plans, is overseeing army affairs during Lagbaja’s absence.
He dismissed the rumours as mischievous, designed to cause panic and confusion.
“The Nigerian Army has a well-structured protocol for dealing with such situations, and this is not the first time a service chief has taken leave,” Nwachukwu explained.
The Army assured Nigerians that the service remains vigilant and fully prepared to safeguard the country’s security, while also expressing gratitude to those who have shown concern and prayed for Lagbaja’s swift recovery.
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