The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, on Friday charged troops to be ready that the Nigerian Army is entering a decisive stage of the war, where failure is not an option.
Speaking while addressing troops of Operation HADIN KAI in Maiduguri, Shaibu told the troops that it signalled urgency over the critical phase of counter-insurgency operations in the North-East.
According to him, the next deployment will determine the success of ongoing efforts to end Boko Haram and ISWAP activities in the region.
“You have been training to defeat the terrorists that have been disturbing the North-East. This time, you are going to do it differently,” he said.
The COAS disclosed that the Army had deployed battle-tested senior officers to the theatre, alongside new platforms, weapons, and logistics.
“All combat enablers have been provided. New platforms have been introduced, all with a view to achieving success.
“This phase of the operation belongs to the new generation of soldiers, you must surpass previous achievements of troops who fought in earlier national and international missions.
“Those before you have done it. Now, the challenge is yours. This is your own time,” he said.
The Army Chief warned the troops to remain focused and follow the command’s structure, assuring them that doubts and operational concerns should be channeled through their officers.
To further bolster troop morale, Shaibu announced improvements in welfare packages, including feeding allowances, prompt payment of entitlements, medical care and accommodation.
“Your welfare has been taken care of from improved ration cost allowance to prompt payment of all your allowances and improved medical health care,” he said.
He also disclosed that the Army was upgrading schools under its command to ensure better education for soldiers’ children.
“We will ensure that your children go to the best schools, our command schools and Army children’s schools,” Shaibu affirmed.
The troops responded with a loud affirmation, assuring the Army Chief of their readiness to deliver on the mission.
The new mobilisation signals a major push into insurgent-held enclaves, where the coming weeks are expected to witness intense engagements.
