The Army War College Nigeria (AWCN) successfully conducted the Fifth Edition of the Nigerian Civil War (NCW) Symposium on June 5, 2024, at the TY Buratai Auditorium in Asokoro, Abuja. The event aimed to provide a platform for presentations and discussions on the Nigerian Civil War, with a focus on the dynamics of leadership and decision-making during the conflict.
The symposium, which is an integral part of the AWCN curriculum, was attended by His Excellency, General Yakubu Gowon, GCFR, former Head of State, who served as the Special Guest of Honour. General Gowon emphasized the enduring significance of the Nigerian Civil War and reflected on his experiences as Head of State during the conflict. He highlighted key lessons from the war, including the importance of unity, ethical leadership, and the critical role of leadership in times of conflict.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General TA Lagbaja, represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army) Major General Abdulsalam Ibrahim, delivered the keynote address. He underscored the critical role of leadership at all levels of warfare, especially at the operational level, and emphasized the importance of developing leadership qualities in military officers.
The symposium featured a lecture by Professor Shedrack Gaya Best, Vice Chancellor of Plateau State University (Bokkos), who provided in-depth insights into the dynamics of leadership and decision-making during the Nigerian Civil War. The event also included a panel discussion and a question-and-answer session, allowing participants to engage with the speakers and share their thoughts and experiences.
The Commandant of AWCN, Major General Ishaya Maina, welcomed participants and highlighted the importance of learning from the past to address contemporary security threats. He praised the caliber of resource persons and the distinguished audience for their contributions to the symposium.
The event concluded with the presentation of souvenirs to the distinguished guests and speakers and a group photograph to capture the momentous occasion. The symposium provided a valuable platform for military officers and scholars to engage in intellectual discourse and reflect on the lessons of the Nigerian Civil War.
