By Muhammad Ibrahim, Sokoto
Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Farouk Yahaya made this known during the closing ceremony of the COAS 2022 Annual Conference held at Kasarawa International Conference Center, Sokoto.
He said the conference assessed their preparations to support the Civil Authority during the conduct of the 2023 general elections and that Formations and units have developed robust contingency plans to assist the civil authority in the provision of enabling environment for the elections.
He added that the reviewed Rules of Engagement and Code of Conduct recently issued to troops were extensively discussed and Commanders are better informed on their responsibilities as well as the obligations of their Personnels.
However, the General revealed that the lessons learnt during their security support for the elections held in Anambra, Ekiti and Osun states were deliberated upon with sound conclusions reached to enhance their security duties in the upcoming elections.
As the new year approaches, the General said he has set strong and reliable targets for Commanders to deliver.
In a welcome development mainly for Officers and men of the Army, welfare of men would continue to be accorded premium attention while ensuring in addition their professional conduct through effective supervision and monitoring.
The general directed Commanders to monitor political developments and threats, conduct precursor operations and rehearse contingency plans to facilitate swift security intervention adding that security measures in all Barracks should continuously be reviewed and reinforced saying it is important for Commanders to liaise with Nigerian Police, DSS and the Nigerian Correctional Services to reinforce security measures in all Correctional facilities in their areas of responsibilities.
He then assured men of the Army Headquarters will vigorously sustain ongoing efforts to provide the requisite resources for them to accomplish their mission.
Commending the Sokoto State Government, the General extended appreciation as well to people of the state for warm treatment, accorded support and hospitality throughout the conference.
The Conference with the them, “Building a Professional Nigerian Army For 21st Century Security Environment” was leveraged on President Buhari’s sustained vigour for the transformation of the Nigerian Army and was attended by senior officers and Commanders of the Nigerian Army from most of the Cadre.
