By Miriam Humbe
The Army headquarters Department of Special Services and Programmes (DSSP) successfully concluded the third edition of its Capacity Building Workshop on Protocol and Liaison Duties.
The event, which took place from April 8th to April 10th, 2025, at TY Buratai Hall, Army War College Nigeria (AWCN), Asokoro, Abuja, attracted key stakeholders and personnel involved in protocol, liaison, and multi-agency coordination.
The workshop aimed to enhance the skills of personnel involved in these critical roles, ensuring they are equipped with the knowledge required to effectively manage complex security situations.
The Chief of Special Services and Programmes (Army), Major General Jamal Abdussalam, expressed his gratitude to the participants for their active engagement throughout the workshop.
He underscored the significance of the knowledge shared during the event, particularly as the Nigerian Army continues to focus on effective coordination during joint and multi-agency operations.
He remarked that the workshop reinforced the importance of protocol and liaison in fostering inter-agency collaboration, which is vital to success in the increasingly complex security environment.
General Abdussalam emphasized the need for continuous training and development in these areas, which directly contribute to the Army’s operational readiness and professionalism.
He concluded by thanking the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General OO Oluyede, for his continued support and guidance to the DSSP.
He reiterated that the department would continue to focus on nurturing a well-motivated and combat-ready force capable of discharging its constitutional duties effectively.
The Director of Protocol, Major General KE Chigbu, in his vote of thanks, expressed his sincere appreciation to all facilitators, invited guests, lecturers, and participants for making the workshop a success.
General Chigbu thanked the Chief of Special Services and Programmes (Army) for his leadership and vision, which enabled the workshop.
He also acknowledged the invaluable contributions of the Commandant Army War College Nigeria, Army Headquarters Garrison, Nigerian Army Corps of Military Police and Headquarters Guards Brigade, and other distinguished lecturers, whose support and expertise significantly facilitated and enriched the workshop.
He concluded by thanking the participants for their discipline and dedication through the workshop, highlighting that the workshop had provided a valuable platform for learning and collaboration amongst the security agencies of our beloved nation.
The final day of the workshop featured two impactful lectures. The first, titled “Legal and Ethical Considerations in Multi-Agency Engagements,” was delivered by Colonel S.O. Okebukola, Acting Director of Legal Services (Army).
His lecture explored the critical role of legal frameworks and ethical standards in multi-agency engagements, stressing the importance of understanding human rights obligations and compliance with international laws in joint operations.
The second lecture, “Effective Protocol and Liaison: A Case Study of Successful Multi-dimensional Events,” was presented by Brigadier General IT Gusau, Acting Director Defence Information.
His lecture focused on practical case studies that highlighted the importance of effective protocol management in successful multi-dimensional operations.
He discussed the complexities involved in organizing large-scale events and stressed the role of liaison officers in facilitating smooth interactions between various agencies.
Highlights of the event were the presentation of certificates to the participants, marking their successful participation in the workshop.
