CHRISTIANA LOT, Jos –
The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja, has emphasized the critical need for the Nigerian Army to constantly reassess and adapt its strategies in response to the evolving security challenges facing Nigeria.
Speaking at the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2024 lecture in Jos, Plateau State, Gen. Lagbaja highlighted the Army’s extensive experience in counterterrorism, counterinsurgency, and peace support operations since 2013.
He described the nation’s security landscape as characterized by “Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity (VUCA)” and stressed the importance of continuous strategic review.
“The multidimensional and ever-changing nature of our intractable contemporary security environment requires the Nigerian Army to continually review its strategies, concept of operations, order of battle, and tactics, techniques, and procedures,” he stated.
The lecture, titled “Combating Complex Conflicts in Nigeria: Challenges and Strategies,” aimed to explore effective approaches to addressing these security issues.
Gen. Lagbaja reflected on the Army’s adaptive strategies over the past two decades, noting, “those of us who have been deeply involved in counterterrorism and counterinsurgency efforts since 2013-2014 will appreciate how complex and adaptive Nigeria’s contemporary security challenges have been.”
Furthermore, he commended President Ahmed Bola Tinubu’s administration for its support of the Armed Forces and advocated for the deployment of more resources to enable the Army to combat crimes through kinetic and non-kinetic means.
Similarly, guest lecturer Lt. General L.O. Adeosun (rtd) highlighted the urgent need to enhance military capabilities to effectively counter security threats. He noted the importance of improving mobility and air superiority, advocating for the acquisition of combat and non-combat helicopters. Adeosun also emphasized the critical role of media regulation in conflict zones, using Sri Lanka as a case study.
“Ensuring transparent and fair media practices is essential to maintaining accurate public information while safeguarding national security,” he stated.
In addressing Nigeria’s security challenges, Adeosun called for comprehensive reforms in the security sector, including strengthening the police force through increased manpower, better equipment, and enhanced training.
“Addressing economic issues such as poverty and unemployment is crucial for reducing vulnerabilities to security threats,” he noted.
Meanwhile, former Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor, stressed the importance of sustained efforts in securing Nigeria and its territorial integrity, urging the Nigerian Armed Forces to remain vigilant and dedicated.
The NADCEL 2024 lecture included discussions from Major General S.O. Olabanji (rtd), Major General O.F. Azinta (rtd), Group Capt. Sadeeq Garba (rtd), and former Inspector General of Police, Solomon Arase (rtd), adding depth to the conversations on security challenges and strategies.
The event also featured an award ceremony for the Chief of Army Staff’s Literary Competition, promoting education and intellectual development among youths. A themed exhibition showcasing the Nigerian Army’s rich history highlighted the institution’s legacy and achievements.
Additionally, the Nigerian Army Resource Journal 2024, Volume 7, was unveiled, containing eight articles providing insights and analyses on various topics relevant to the nation’s security and military operations.
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