Follow Us on Google
From Molly Kilete, Abuja
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olatunbosun Oluyede, has assured Nigerians that Lakurawa, terrorists group will soon be a thing of the past.
He said the Nigerian Army remained steadfast in its commitment to securing the nation’s territorial integrity and ensuring the safety of all citizens.
The army chief gave the assurance at the opening of the 2024 COAS Annual Conference holding at the Command Officers Mess, Abuja.
Oluyede, while noting that the Nigerian Army has intensified its onslaught against Lakurawa, said that the newly launched “Operation Fasan Yamma” has ramped up efforts to dismantle Lakurawa’s terror network and cripple its operations.
To wipe out insurgency and other criminals groupd, the said COAS, that Enhanced intelligence gathering, rapid deployment of special forces, and synchronized air and ground offensives have been deployed to control the region and eliminate threats. He also said that local communities are being engaged for information-sharing to foster trust and unity in countering Lakurawa and other terror groups.
He emphasized the comprehensive strategy of combining kinetic and non-kinetic measures to ensure lasting peace and safety in affected areas.
Oluyede, who announced a systematic rotation of troops in operational theaters to prevent fatigue and maintain high morale among troops, said:”We are committed to relieving overstretched personnel and introducing fresh forces to enhance operational effectiveness,”
He also said that systematic troop rotation is crucial for preserving the physical and mental well-being of soldiers, ensuring readiness and motivation.
The COAS used the occasion to announce his leadership philosophy which he said is aimed at transforming the Nigerian Army into a well-motivated, combat-ready force.
Other News
He said “Training drives operational success, and under my command, training will remain focused and realistic to meet the demands of current and future operating environments”.
While noting the importance of professionalism in military education, the COAS, said that all training institutions would be geared toward equipping officers and soldiers with the skills required to meet Nigeria’s security challenges.
Gen. Oluyede, while commending officers and soldiers for their commitment and intensified efforts in atmy operations across the six geopolitical zones, said operations like Hadin Kai, Fasan Yamma, Whirl Stroke, Safe Haven, and Delta Safe, have been instrumental in combating terrorism, banditry, and other security threats in the country.
The COAS also said that the Army’s success in integrating large-scale non-kinetic approaches, particularly in the North West and North East, led to the mass surrendering of terrorists and the recovery of a significant cache of arms and ammunition.
Oluyede, while commending the support of the Executive and Legislative arms of government, lauded the acquisition of cutting-edge military equipment, including helicopters, drones, and armored vehicles.
“The refurbishment of T-72 tanks, Armored Personnel Carriers, and artillery pieces has significantly improved operational efficiency.”
He assured Nigerians that efforts to strengthen the Army’s combat capabilities will continue in 2025.
“We will upscale both kinetic and non-kinetic efforts to restore peace across the country,”.
Oluyede expressed gratitude to troops and urged commanders to inspire their forces through exemplary leadership. Quoting Sun Tzu, he emphasized: “A leader leads by example, not by force.”
