Army Chief Urges Troops to Maintain Vigilance Amid Evolving Security Threats

The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has charged Nigerian Army personnel to remain vigilant, disciplined and committed to their responsibilities amid evolving security challenges across the country.

Shaibu gave the directive on Thursday during the inauguration of several infrastructure projects at Adekunle Fajuyi and Letmauck Cantonments in Ibadan, Oyo State.

Represented by the General Officer Commanding, 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Auwalu Mahmuda, the Army chief urged personnel to uphold the service's core values of discipline, loyalty, integrity, selfless service and professionalism.

He emphasised the need for officers and soldiers to demonstrate accountability and respect for constituted authority, both within and outside military barracks.

Shaibu commended the personnel of 81 Battalion for their dedication and sacrifices in ongoing operations aimed at maintaining peace and security within the division's area of responsibility.

He urged them to sustain their commitment to duty, exercise courage and remain responsive to emerging threats while strengthening cooperation with other security agencies.

The Army chief reaffirmed the military's commitment to building a professional, combat-ready and resilient force capable of addressing the country's security challenges.

The projects inaugurated included two 10-man transit accommodation units for junior personnel, five blocks of family quarters for corporals and below, and two houses for regimental sergeants major serving with the 2 Military Intelligence Brigade and 502 Signal Brigade at Adekunle Fajuyi Cantonment.

Other facilities included the 81 Battalion Officers' Mess, sports facilities and semi-detached three-bedroom married officers' quarters at Letmauck Cantonment, Mokola.

Shaibu said the newly commissioned facilities were provided with supporting infrastructure to improve their functionality, ensure proper maintenance and enhance operational readiness.

He described the projects as investments in human capital, noting that improved living conditions for military personnel and their families would strengthen morale, unit cohesion and operational effectiveness.

He urged the beneficiaries to take responsibility for maintaining the facilities, warning that poor maintenance could undermine the purpose of the investments.

Earlier, the Commander of 42 Engineer Brigade, Brigadier General Uchechukwu Okoroji, said the condition of the structures before their renovation and remodelling had raised concerns about personnel welfare.

He identified improved welfare and sound administration as important factors in strengthening military effectiveness.

Similarly, the Commanding Officer of 81 Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Chiemezie Asogwa, expressed appreciation to the Army chief for approving the projects, describing the interventions as part of efforts to improve the living and working conditions of soldiers and their families.