By Mariam Sanni
Chief of Army Staff, COAS, Lieutenant-General Olufemi Oluyede has emphasised the importance of support from communities to combat insecurity in the country.
General Oluyede noted that security is not the sole prerogative of security agencies, as they need the collaborative support of all citizens.
The army chief stated this at the Army Headquarters Department of Administration First Quarter Year 2025 Veteran Affairs Pre-retirernent
Training/Business Development Seminar, held in Kaduna, yesterday.
The seminar had as theme: ‘Effective Planning Towards Mitigating Challenges/ Issues Affecting Nigerian Army Personnel/ Veterans in Post-Retirement Life Within a Civil Environment.’
Oluyede, represented by the Deputy Chief of Administration, Nigerian Army, Major-General U.T Opuene, said the training had continued to leverage the achievements and successes of previous seminars, as well as input of the Nigerian Army and veterans in the pursuit of national security, while enhancing their general well-being in every ramification.
“Thus, in tandem with my command’s philosophy, which is to consolidate the transformation of the Nigerian Army towards bequeathing a well-motivated and combat ready force that can effectively discharge its constitutional responsibilities within a joint and multi-agency environment, I have always seen the relevance of personnel and veterans in the overall security architecture of the country.”
He said the seminar would focus on the imperatives of personnel scheduled for retirement in the next couple of years and veterans towards enhanced mindset on retirement lifestyle and possible business engagement,” he said.
Oluyede said given the constant evolution, both political and economic, and in particular, the security impasse and its impact on the well-being of citizens, it is pertinent to state that security is not the sole prerogative of security apparatus, as the collaborative support of all citizens is key.
“The deliberate collaboration, synergy and services of our serving, retired and discharged personnel with good understanding of the security system would facilitate effective security management in the country.
“I implore our esteemed veterans to make the best use of the financial education and business ideas.
“I urge us all to pay attention and contribute meaningfully during the paper presentation and the interactive session,” Oluyede added.
The COAS appreciated President Bola Tinubu for his resolute commitment to the Nigerian Army.
Earlier in his welcome address, the General Officer Commanding, GOC, 1 Division Nigerian Army, Major-General Mayirenso Saraso said the seminar is a unique opportunity for the capacity development of participants.
Saraso said, “The seminar is expected to consolidate on the gains of the previous editions, while addressing gaps in the employment of Nigerian Army personnel and veterans in information gathering and other supporting roles to military operation.”
He said it is also expected to boost the morale of personnel and veterans, and give them a sense of belonging, while enhancing their productivity and welfare in retirement.
The GOC appreciated the COAS for his consistent and unflinching support to 1 Division.
