The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has urged Battalion Commanders of the Nigerian Army (NA) to effectively address emerging security threats by demonstrating exemplary leadership in commanding their troops.
General Oluyede gave the directive during his address to Battalion Commanders in Ibadan, where they had gathered for the recently concluded First Commanding Officers’ Workshop for 2025, held at the Headquarters of the 2 Division Nigerian Army (NA).
The COAS was on a working tour to assess the division’s operational and administrative activities.
In his speech, General Oluyede emphasized that as Battalion Commanders, they play a critical role as the link between operational and tactical command levels. He stressed the importance of exhibiting key leadership qualities such as responsibility, accountability, and moral courage to lead their troops effectively, both in combat and during peacetime.
He further encouraged the Commanding Officers to take decisive action in addressing national security threats within their areas of responsibility.
The theme of the workshop, “Enhancing Tactical Level Command and Leadership Within a Joint Environment,” resonated strongly with General Oluyede’s vision to transform the Nigerian Army. He urged the Commanders to remain steadfast in their loyalty to the government and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The COAS also praised Major General Sadiq Ndalolo, the Chief of Training (Army), and his team for organizing the workshop, which aimed to build the capacity of Battalion Commanders.
He expressed sincere gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his ongoing support of the army’s transformation efforts.
Earlier, the General Officer Commanding 2 Division, Maj Gen Obinna Onubogu, explained that the workshop aimed to renew the Battalion Commanders’ commitment to the COAS’s vision of a highly motivated and combat-ready army. He noted that the workshop would enhance their understanding of tactical operations, strategic planning, and leadership skills to improve operational and administrative efficiency across various theatres of operation.
In addition to his address to the Battalion Commanders, General Oluyede also spoke to troops at the division’s Garrison Parade Ground, commending them for their dedication in tackling the nation’s security challenges. He urged them to remain committed and professional in their duties.
General Oluyede reiterated that his priority remains the welfare of soldiers and their families, citing ongoing initiatives such as the regular provision of uniforms, kits, combat enablers, improved accommodation, access to loan schemes, increased allowances, and affordable housing for retiring soldiers.
As part of his efforts to improve the living and working conditions of troops, the COAS commissioned the 2 Division Petroleum, Oil, and Lubricants (POL) Station in Adekunle Fajuyi Cantonment and a Military Police Holding Facility at Mokola Barracks. He also approved the rehabilitation of the Warrant Officers’ and Sergeants’ Mess at Adekunle Fajuyi Cantonment and the 81 Battalion Officers’ Mess in Mokola.
Additionally, the COAS inspected the ongoing rehabilitation of soldiers’ quarters at both cantonments.
