The acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Maj.-Gen. Olufemi Olatubosun-Oluyede, said the Nigeria Army is committed to the training and retraining of its personnel for improved performance.

The acting COAS made this known on Saturday in Minna while speaking at the Training and Doctrine Command, Nigeria Army (TRADOC NA) Merit Award 2024.

He said that such routine training was required to make the personnel more efficient in the discharge of their duties, particularly now that they are involved in internal security operations.

Represented by the director general, Nigeria Army Heritage and Future Centre, Maj.-Gen. Obinna Ajunwa, the acting COAS said that the Nigerian Army would continue to reward excellence and punish negligence by its personnel.

According to him, such rewards would serve as a motivation to the officers and men of the army to put in their best in the defense of the territorial integrity of the country.

“This ceremony is to reward and recognise hard work, dedication and commitment of NA officers while promoting healthy competition among Nigeria Army Corps or institutions towards enhancing professionalism in the military.

“I am pleased to be here for this important ceremony to honour officers, who have distinguished themselves in various capacities during NA promotion examinations conducted by TRADOC NA in the Year 2024.

“This initiative will definitely encourage officers to prepare adequately for future army examinations.

“It will also propel and stimulate junior officers to strive for excellence in a bid to enhance professionalism, which is in line with my command philosophy,” he said.

While commending President Bola Tinubu and Commander in Chief for his continuous support to the Nigerian Army, the acting COAS also appreciated the minister of defence and Chief of Defence Staff for their contributions.

In his welcome address, Maj.-Gen. Kelvin Aligbe, the commander, TRADOC said that the command introduced the TRADOC NA Merit Award in the Year 2021 to reward excellence and instill the culture of hard work and healthy competition among officers.

“All the awards and recognitions have become essential as a means of promoting as well as enhancing the overall administrative efficiency and operational effectiveness of the Nigeria Army,” Mr Aligbe said.

Capt. Mustapha Ahmed, who spoke on behalf of other awardees and doubled as top-performing officer in the captain cadre to major cadre exams, expressed gratitude on behalf of the awarded officers.

He pledged their loyalty and commitment to duty.

Highlight of the occasion include the presentation of various categories of awards to deserving officers and the inauguration of  the multipurpose hall named after Lt.-Gen T.A Lagbaja.

 (NAN)