The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Faruk Yahaya, says the Nigerian Army is on course towards achieving self-sufficiency in defence production.
Yahaya said this on Wednesday in Abuja, at the closing of the Chief of Army Staff First Quarter Conference, 2023.
He said that there were notable effects of Research and Development in the successes of militaries world over.
According to him, this is judging from the items showcased by various establishments during the Research and Development Exhibition at the beginning of the conference.
“I have no doubt that we are on course towards achieving self-sufficiency in defence production.
“I am glad that the Nigerian army research and development efforts has in recent times received renewed push to contribute towards addressing our needs and contemporary challenges.
“The newly established Nigerian Army Heritage and Future Centre is also positioned to support the research and development effort Nigerian Army delivers.
“We should also continue to harness and encourage personnel with research potentials to put more efforts to enhance our research and development, and be innovative to reposition the Nigerian Army to curb contemporary challenges,” he said.
The COAS said that the interaction during the conference had elicited actionable ideas that would undoubtedly improve army’s kinetic and non-kinetic operations.
He said the conference had also afforded the Army, the opportunity to adequately appraise ita efforts for better outputs for the remaining months of the year and beyond.
He commended the troops for their effort, dedication, commitment and sacrifices across all theatres of operation and during the just-concluded Operation Safe Conduct.
He also commended them for the collaboration with sister services, other security agencies and civil/military cooperation.
According to him, there is no gainsaying that there is need to sustain these collaborations to guarantee cohesiveness and resolve in the defence of the nation.
Yahaya said the establishment of Faruk Yahaya Historical Park was part of efforts geared towards commemorating and preserving the cherished history of serving and retired Nigerian army officers and soldiers.
He said the park, an extension of the Nigerian Army Museum, also honoured their fallen heroes and keeps records of deserving personnel who served the nation valiantly with legendary leadership qualities.
“The park provides a sense of belonging, a sense of pride, and a sense of honour to the families of our deceased and serving colleagues whose names are inscribed in recognition of their service,” he said.
The Army chief noted that the service had remained sensitive to troops morale on its performance in operations, hence the procurement of 25 new Toyota Hilux vehicles for 25 Army Warrant Officers among other welfare packages.
He said the welfare packages were also aimed at encouraging young soldiers to remain steadfast, committed and aspire to attain the coveted rank.
“In the coming days and into the future, we should continue to improve on the general welfare and administration of our men and their families which I consider very key in all human endeavours.
The COAS urged commanders at all levels to strive to improve on the recorded achievements of the Nigerian army and ensure thorough supervision, briefing and debriefing of troops under those commands.