The Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, has said the Nigerian Army will take delivery of helicopters and other combat enablers aimed at improving the security situation across the country.
Lagbaja disclosed this at a special luncheon organised for frontline troops in Port Harcourt, Rivers State capital, on Monday.
He commended men and officers of the Nigerian Army for their courage and resilience in the face of adversity and their undying faith in the country.
Represented at the event by the Commander, Training and Doctrine Command, Nigerian Army, Maj. Gen. Kevin Aligbe, the COAS said the Army headquarters has initiated several welfare projects that will directly impact the lives of Nigerian soldiers.
The COAS stated, “It is a fact that over 50,000 of our colleagues will miss wishing their families and loved ones a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year in person this season, not because they do not want to, but because they will be on duty in difficult to access towns, villages and hamlets across the country and beyond.
“Judging by the programmes and policies of the Federal Government, the year ahead holds numerous prospects for Nigeria and the military.”
Continuing, Lagbaja said, “The incoming year, the Nigerian Army expects to take delivery of its helicopters and other combat enablers that will see better security developed across the entire country.
“The security challenges in the country, so much have been done and we are winning on all fronts but they are still a lot more to be done.
“So we are going to focus on training to meet those challenges to ensure that Nigeria returns to the good old days where they can travel freely across the country and sleep with their two eyes closed.”
Earlier, the General Officer Commanding, 6 Division Nigeria Army, Port Harcourt Major General Jamal Abdussalam, said the operational activities of the Army had led to a surge in oil production quota for a relatively consistent period.
Abdussalam assured all that the 6 Division Nigerian Army will continue to conduct its operations in line with global best practices and adherence to the code of conduct, rule of engagement as well as adherence to fundamental human rights.
He warned criminal elements who recently shot dead four soldiers in Ahoada, Rivers State that they will be made to pay a higher price for their actions.
He added, “Our troops have been involved in various kinetic and non-kinetic activities that have considerably shaped the operating environment, with their attendant operational hazards.
“Key among these hazards are loss of precious lives of our dear colleagues, occasional Ioss and damage of equipment.
“You are all aware that most recently we lost four of our gallant soldiers to the criminal activities of militants, unwarranted and unprovoked attacks.”
Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, represented by his deputy, Prof Ngozi Ordu, lauded the Nigerian Army for their sacrifices and assured that the state government will continue to support the Army and sister agencies to improve security in the state.
