By Miriam Humbe
Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen Olufemi Oluyede on Tuesday said there is no hiding place for bandits, terrorists and other criminal elements in the country.
The COAS said this during his tour of the country’s army formations at the headquarters of Army 4 Special Forces, Doma in Nasarawa State.
He said that the Army would deal decisively with all the criminal elements threatening the peace and unity of Nigeria and restore the country to its glorious past.
The COAS said there were so many security challenges in the country making it necessary for the army to synergize with other agencies to tackle them.
While appreciating the contributions of all personnel in the theatre in different parts of the country, the COAS promised to prioritise their welfare and training.
For a reward system, the COAS promised that due diligence of dedicated personnel would pay, and deal with those found flouting the rules guiding the army.
Oluyede said that he had served in the Northeast for more than two years so no soldier is expected to reject posting to any troubled area under his leadership.
He therefore promised improved welfare of soldiers and said that they were expected to equally reciprocate by being more committed and dedicated to their duties.
The COAS revealed that he had about four Special Forces barracks and was told about their challenges by Maj.-Gen. Hilary Nzan, the commander.
He promised that by February 20, 2025, the Army would begin the construction of an additional five blocks of hostel for junior and senior officers as well.
He said: “I feel that we should make the Special Forces better for the army and make you more functional and effective.
“We will also establish a Special Training School in Doma, headquarters of the Special Forces, to equip you with the requisite knowledge, skill, and technical know-how for optimal performance”.
The Army Chief said that his Command philosophy was to prioritise the welfare of soldiers by ensuring that personnel enjoyed themselves while in service and at retirement.
