The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede has cautioned Nigerians against social vices, including cultism, drug abuse, and related behaviours.

He issued the warning on Saturday during a public speaking event at Community Secondary School, Odo-Ape, in Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi. The event was part of activities marking the 2025 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL).

Brig. Gen. Kasim Sidi, the commander of 12 Brigade, Lokoja, represented the COAS and emphasised the need for positive values among young people.

In his speech, delivered by Major Azi Izang, the Brigade Education Officer, Mr Sidi expressed gratitude for the army’s progress in recent years.

Mr Sidi reaffirmed the army’s dedication to national resilience and the advancement of security efforts nationwide.

He highlighted the COAS’ vision to transform the Nigerian Army into a motivated, combat-ready force capable of handling diverse challenges.

The commander urged students to be patriotic, embrace honesty, and avoid all forms of criminal activity.

He encouraged them to apply knowledge and skills towards personal growth, community development, and national progress.

Mr Sidi also stressed the COAS’ commitment to strengthening operational strategies through continuous engagements and reforms.

He reiterated the army’s dedication to national security, the rule of law, and supporting Nigeria’s economic prosperity.

Lieutenants Gbemisola Ojowa and Hassan Abdullah held interactive sessions, explaining Nigerian Army career paths and entry requirements.

They advised students to avoid bad company, cultism, drug use, and other behaviours with destructive consequences.

Alfred Obayelu, the school principal, thanked the COAS and 12 Brigade for choosing their school for the 2025 NADCEL event.

Students’ representatives, Great Adeyanju and Dorcas Adeboye, said the programme improved their knowledge of Army careers and the dangers of drug abuse and cultism.

The event featured the distribution of educational materials to students and the presentation of souvenirs to dignitaries.

 The week-long celebration marks the 162nd anniversary of the Nigerian Army with prayers, church services, and public speaking sessions.

(NAN)