- A civil society coalition praised Army Chief Gen. Oluyede for prioritising troop welfare and boosting morale through reforms
- Gen. Oluyede, during a visit to Ogoja, commended soldiers’ resilience and pledged better living conditions, education for families, and operational efficiency
- The coalition urged Nigerians to support the military, stressing that defeating terrorism required civilian cooperation alongside Oluyede’s welfare-driven leadership
A coalition of civil society unions, the Campaign Against Injustice (CAI), has applauded the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Olufemi Oluyede, for prioritising the welfare of Nigerian troops.
In a statement issued on Monday, September 15, the convener, Abbey Jolaosho, said the Army Chief’s latest initiative reflects his determination to confront Nigeria’s security challenges decisively.
Source: Twitter
“We are glad with this development as it confirms our belief that the Army Chief has what it takes to win the war on terrorism,” the statement read.
Coalition calls for public support
The coalition urged Nigerians to lend support to the military, noting that countering insurgency cannot be left to the Army alone, Vanguard reported.
Army Chief’s operational visit
General Oluyede had, on Tuesday, paid an operational visit to Godwin Ally Barracks, Ogoja, Cross River state, where he commended the resilience of officers and soldiers of 130 Battalion and 341 Artillery Regiment.
He praised their “unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation” and assured them that under his leadership, the Army would continue to prioritise both welfare and operational efficiency.
During the visit, he inspected facilities, interacted directly with troops, and acknowledged the sacrifices made in the face of Nigeria’s ongoing security challenges.
Focus on soldiers’ families and welfare
Reaffirming his “Soldiers First” mantra, Oluyede revealed that resources were being channelled into revamping schools in military barracks, ensuring children of personnel have access to quality education, The Nation reported.
He also directed the immediate renovation of dilapidated accommodation blocks to improve the living standards of soldiers and their families.
“The welfare of our troops and their families remains a priority. Better living and working conditions must go hand-in-hand with operational excellence,” he stated.
Concrete welfare measures introduced
The Army Chief cited the recent increase in Ration Cash Allowance, which has enabled commanders to provide improved meals for troops, as one of the reforms aimed at raising morale.
He also disclosed that new uniforms and essential military kits would be supplied to every soldier to standardise readiness and reinforce esprit de corps.
Call for discipline and synergy
Oluyede urged troops to uphold high standards of discipline and professionalism while enhancing cooperation with sister security agencies and host communities.
“Collaboration is vital to consolidating peace and stability not only in Cross River but across the country,” he stressed.
Bandit kingpin kills 7 fighters in Zamfara
Legit.ng earlier reported that Ado Aleru, deadly bandit kingpin, has allegedly killed seven of his fighters who were involved in a recent kidnapping operation.
Counter insurgency expert and security analyst, Zagazola Makama, confirmed this and said Aleru accused his fighters of staging unauthorised kidnappings along the Gusau–Yankara highway, and drawing too much attention.
Source: Legit.ng