The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has called on commanders at all levels to lead by example while prioritizing the welfare and training of troops. He made this call on Monday, December 16, 2024, while declaring open the Chief of Army Staff Annual Conference 2024 at the Army Headquarters Command Officers’ Mess 1, Asokoro, Abuja.
Lieutenant General Oluyede emphasized the importance of decisive leadership, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the Nigerian Army’s mission objectives. According to him, leading with determination and empathy is critical for motivating troops and achieving success in addressing Nigeria’s pressing security issues.
Reflecting on the Army’s performance in 2024, the COAS described the year as eventful, particularly in the fight against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and the unlawful killing of innocent citizens. He noted an increase in the Army’s operational tempo and underscored the need to intensify both kinetic and non-kinetic operations across all theatres of engagement to secure peace and stability for Nigerians.
Expressing gratitude for the support received from the executive and legislative arms of government, the COAS noted that re-equipping the Nigerian Army and refurbishing critical combat enablers have significantly contributed to operational successes. He reiterated his command philosophy: “To consolidate the transformation of the Nigerian Army into a well-motivated and combat-ready force capable of discharging its constitutional responsibilities effectively within a joint and multi-agency environment.”
Lieutenant General Oluyede reaffirmed his commitment to realistic and focused training while promoting a “Soldier-First Culture” that prioritizes troops’ physical and mental well-being. He highlighted ongoing welfare initiatives such as support schemes for widows, next-of-kin of fallen heroes, and personnel affected by service-related disabilities, stressing the importance of sustaining troop morale and preventing operational fatigue.
Commending officers and soldiers for their dedication and sacrifices, the COAS encouraged personnel to strive for even greater accomplishments in 2025. He also expressed profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his strategic leadership and unwavering support for the Nigerian Army. The COAS further acknowledged the contributions of the National Assembly, the Minister of Defence, the Minister of State for Defence, and the Chief of Defence Staff in meeting the Army’s funding and operational needs.
Earlier, the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Major General Abdulsalami Abubakar, welcomed participants to the conference. He described it as an opportunity to assess the Army’s operations and strategies while paying tribute to the late Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja. Major General Abubakar reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to upholding the late COAS’s legacy.
As part of welfare initiatives during the conference, Lieutenant General Oluyede presented Group Life Insurance Cheques to the next of kin of fallen heroes and handed over 12 Hilux vehicles to Army Warrant Officers. The event also featured the unveiling of the newly produced Vanquisher Light Armoured Vehicle, a demonstration of the Army’s continued commitment to strengthening its operational capabilities.
