Army Chief Cautions Troops Against Drug and Substance Addiction

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The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has warned personnel of the Nigerian Army across the country against engaging in drugs and substance abuse, noting that such acts could negatively affect their abilities to carry out their duties effectively.

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The COAS stated this on Wednesday during the commencement of a 4-day seminar on “Transformational Leadership, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder And Drug/Substance Abuse,” which was held at the 4 Special Forces Command, Doma, Nasarawa State.

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Shaibu, who was represented by the Commander, Army Headquarters Garrison, Maj-Gen. John Lar, noted that the seminar was aimed at building trust and inspiring soldiers with a shared vision, and empowering troops to adapt quickly to an unpredictable environment.

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He added that it was also aimed at preserving troops’ morale and combat readiness by addressing mental health challenges and curbing substance abuse.

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The COAS said the seminar forms part of ongoing efforts to sensitise junior and middle cadre officers on the need to adopt appropriate leadership style and values to achieve overwhelming success.

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He said, “We cannot achieve our operational objectives if the mental health of our troops is compromised. I want to, however, reiterate that post-traumatic stress disorder is not a sign of weakness; it is a battle injury of the mind. We are committed to providing the necessary support system, early intervention and professional counselling to help our warriors transition successfully from trauma to triumph.

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“Furthermore, the Nigerian Army has zero tolerance for drugs and substance abuse. It is a twin impediment to combat readiness and a threat to national security. It undermines unit cohesion and degrades operational effectiveness.

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“I urge commanders at all levels to intensify the fight against this menace within our barracks and formations.”

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The army chief commended the Department of Army Transformation and Innovation headed by Maj-Gen. Peter Okoye for working tirelessly to ensure that the mental health and general well-being of the entire army personnel is guaranteed.

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He further urged all the participants to participate actively and absorb the invaluable insights that would be shared by the resource persons who were on the ground to extensively discuss issues relating to the seminar topic.

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“Considering the calibre of resource persons assembled, I’m confident this seminar will achieve its intended objectives. I encourage all participants to take advantage of this rare opportunity to deepen their understanding of the issues to be discussed,” he added.

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On his part, Okoye said the importance of the seminar could not be overemphasised, particularly as the army personnel continue to confront the physical and psychological demands of modern military operations.

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He explained that the seminar was designed to align closely with the command Philosophy of the COAS to advance the transformation of the army into a more professional, adaptable, combat-ready and resilient force.

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“This philosophy underscores the fact that the strength of the Nigerian Army lies not only in its equipment and capabilities but also in the resilience, discipline and mental readiness of its personnel.

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“As we continue to record successes in training and operations, we must sustain and strengthen the leadership quality and mental health of personnel to enhance their cohesion and operational efficiency,” he emphasised.

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