By Victor Akaa
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, has urged troops of the Nigerian Army (NA) to reciprocate the ongoing transformation drive with operational effectiveness in combating security challenges. The COAS gave the charge during the commissioning of the Nigerian Army Armoured Corps Headquarters Complex in Obienu Barracks, Bauchi, on Wednesday.
Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, Director Army Public Relations in a statement issued on Wednesday, said General Lagbaja acknowledged the support of the Federal Government in clearing the backlog of Group Life Assurance and implementing welfare schemes to improve personnel’s living standards and their families. He noted that several combat platforms unique to the Corps were undergoing repairs and retrofitting at the Nigerian Army Command Engineering Depot to be reinforced their operational capabilities and effectiveness.
He enjoined the troops to exhibit high standards of discipline, dedication, and loyalty, and solicited cooperation from serving and retired senior officers to move the Armoured Corps forward and restore its traditional and rightful position as the Combat Arm of Decisions in the NA.
The COAS also commissioned a Fire Service Station and a Petroleum Oil Lubricants (POL) dump, and paid a courtesy visit to the Emir of Bauchi, His Royal Highness Alhaji (Dr) Rilwan Suleiman Adamu.
The Governor of Bauchi State, represented by the Deputy Governor, commended the proactive steps taken by the NA and urged sustenance of synergy amongst security agencies. The Governor further pledged the commit of the state Government to supporting the NA to carry out its constitutional responsibility in the state.
In his remarks, the Sultan of Sokoto, a former Tanker of the MA during the meritorious service, appreciated the role of the Armoured Corps in the fight against terrorism and insurgency, and lauded the COAS for the remarkable transformation of the Nigerian Army.
He , however, enjoined him to sustain the development drive.
