The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, on Wednesday commissioned 22 qualified officers and soldiers as pilots and certified aircraft engineers in the Nigerian Army Space Command.
Speaking at the closing of the COAS Annual Conference at the Command Officers’ Mess, Lt. Gen. Oluyede described the winging of these officers as a significant morale booster, affirming their certification to fly and maintain the Turkish Berakta TV-2 drones in the Army’s inventory.
“The Nigerian Army plans to procure additional unmanned aerial systems in the coming year to enhance its operations across all theatres,” he added.
Addressing the recent budget proposal presented by President Bola Tinubu to the National Assembly, the COAS said, “The Nigerian Army looks forward to a smooth project defense and timely release of appropriated funds in the new year to facilitate its activities.”
Over the past three days, Lt. Gen. Oluyede shared that the Army had reflected extensively on matters concerning administration, training, and operations. He particularly highlighted the Army’s focus on innovative strategies to tackle terrorism, secessionist agitations, and other security threats facing the nation.
“As a follow-up to our deliberations, the Nigerian Army will invest more in modern technology to aid training and ultimately combat these threats,” Oluyede said. “Since training directly influences official actions, the Army headquarters will promote realistic and focused training throughout the force and conduct a thorough review of specialized training to achieve the desired victory.”
He also announced that the Army’s best equipment would be deployed to training schools to ensure military personnel are well-prepared for current and future operations.
Looking ahead, the COAS emphasized the need to transform the Nigerian Army into a well-motivated, combat-ready force capable of effective operations within a joint and multi-agency environment.
He also addressed the Army’s accommodation issues, saying, “I have directed that all ongoing office and accommodation projects be completed swiftly and allocated to deserving personnel. New projects will also be initiated to address accommodation shortfalls.”
Oluyede underscored the importance of soldiers’ welfare, saying, “I look forward to establishing a soldier-first culture across the force, recognizing their crucial role as the foundation of the Nigerian Army’s strength, operational readiness, and mission success.”
The COAS expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his unwavering support of the Nigerian Army, assuring the President and the people of Nigeria of the Army’s continued commitment to the defense and security of the nation.
“Under my leadership, the Nigerian Army will leave no stone unturned in upholding the confidence and support of the government and the people of Nigeria,” he concluded.
