In a no holds barred lecture to mark the Nigerian Army Day Celebration 2025 on Saturday, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt Gen Olufemi Oluyede has commended troops of the Nigerian Army for their resilience and unwavering efforts, saying that Soldiers are more likely to uphold the Army’s core values when their sacrifices are recognized and their efforts are not diminished.
In a remark during a lecture delivered by the former Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Faruk Yahaya (retd) titled: “The Soldier First” Concept and the Future of the Nigerian Army: Shaping a New Culture for Army Transformation,” Gen Gen Oluyede said that the lecture would serve as an avenue for critical reflection of the soldiers’ duties and the dynamics that align operational and tactical requirements.
He emphasized that the Soldier First concept is about prioritizing the training, equipping, responsive leadership and effective administration of Nigerian Army soldiers to carry out their duties effectively.
The concept, the COAS stressed takes cognizance of the expected reciprocal actions of all soldiers which could rightly be summed up as adherence to the core values of the Nigerian Army, which would explore the nexus that connects the evolving battlespace, generational warfare of today and the role of the individual soldier in our operations.
Lt Gen Oluyede remarked that “As we look toward a future shaped by innovation and strategic advancements, he reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to ensuring that troops have the tools to perform their duties efficiently.
“Gleaning from the lessons learnt from our various operations, it is evident that the Soldier First concept, if judiciously applied, will be a key driver to transforming the Nigerian Army’s institutional culture and doctrines towards enhancing our overall capabilities.
Adding that, “The renewed drive towards this concept has influenced our policies in some key areas. This is seen in our conscious promotion of the leadership style where commanders prioritize the needs of their subordinates and their mission above personal gain.
He further explained that “the concept underscores the importance of providing quality housing, healthcare, and family support systems. The idea is that a soldier who understands that his well-being is the priority of his commanders at all levels and his Chief of Army Staff, will naturally be motivated and encouraged to perform better even in the face of adversity.
“In the area of training, I have directed the Army Headquarters Department of Training to pay close attention to all the training schools while working closely with the tri-service institutions to ensure that all training curricula reflect the requirements of today’s operating environment.”
On promotion, the army boss hinted that his leadership is committed to establishing merit-based promotions, commendations, and awards to deserving individuals, which is key to encouraging excellence, hard work and loyalty within the ranks.
Reiterating his commitment to ensuring that everyone is not left out in his strategic directives, the Chief of Army Staff declared that his administration is poised to empower our junior leadership to develop a sense of responsibility while also creating a conducive environment where information flows freely and unabated between all levels of command.
“This will encourage soldiers, particularly lower tactical commanders, to share ideas, concerns, and constructive criticisms without fear of reprisal,” he reiterated.
The interactive session of the lecture assessed in-depth into the Soldier First concept from the perspective of the distinguished Guest Lecturer, Lt Gen Faruk Yahaya (retd).
He appreciated the invaluable support and presence of former Chiefs of Army Staff, Lt Gens Azubike Onyeabor Ihejirika (Retired) as Special Guest of Honour and our erudite Guest Lecturer, Lt Gen Faruk Yahaya (Retired) for honouring their invitation.
The Nigerian Army Day Celebration 2025 will be rounded off with the Grand Finale on Sunday, July 6, 2025.
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