In a move aimed at bolstering the combat readiness of Nigerian Army (NA) formations, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, conducted an operational visit to the 401 Special Forces Brigade in Makurdi, Benue State on Thursday, November 30, 2023.
This visit is part of his comprehensive tour of Nigerian Army units across the country.
The primary objective of the visit was to assess the troops’ combat readiness and to reinforce ongoing operations, with a focus on effectively mitigating security challenges experienced nationwide.
During his address to the troops, the COAS expressed profound appreciation for their unwavering dedication and sacrificial service to the nation. He encouraged the soldiers to uphold their commitment to preserving peace and stability, emphasizing the critical role they play in safeguarding the nation’s security. Furthermore, he stressed the importance of maintaining discipline and professionalism while carrying out their constitutional responsibilities.
Highlight of the visit was the commissioning of a 7.5-kilometer road project within the Joe Akahan Military Cantonment, constructed by the Nigerian Army Engineers. This infrastructure enhancement initiative is aimed at improving the overall barracks infrastructure and ensuring the welfare of the barracks community. General Lagbaja urged the community to value and maintain the road, underscoring the Nigerian Army’s continuous efforts to provide additional infrastructure and social amenities to support soldiers and their families.
In a statement following the visit, the Director of Army Public Relations, Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu, emphasized the importance of such operational visits in reinforcing the combat capabilities of the Nigerian Army and enhancing the welfare of its personnel.
The COAS’s visit to the 401 Special Forces Brigade in Makurdi signals a proactive approach by the Nigerian Army leadership to continuously evaluate and strengthen the operational readiness of its troops, with a parallel focus on improving infrastructure and amenities for its personnel.
This operational tour underscores the Nigerian Army’s commitment to upholding national security and enhancing the welfare of its personnel, as it continues to address security challenges across the country.
