The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has stressed that the effectiveness of military operations is closely tied to the availability and serviceability of operational platforms.
Shaibu said serviceable mobility assets were critical to enabling troops to move personnel, equipment and logistics promptly in response to operational demands.
The Army Chief spoke at the commissioning of refurbished operational vehicles and the Nightingale Club at 1 Women Battalion, Giri, Abuja.
Represented by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the COAS said the refurbishment of the vehicles formed part of efforts to strengthen troops’ mobility, operational responsiveness and welfare in support of ongoing national security operations.
He added that the vehicles would improve the formation’s capacity to respond efficiently to assigned tasks.
Shaibu consequently directed commanders and personnel entrusted with the vehicles to ensure their proper maintenance, responsible use and strict compliance with relevant regulations.
According to him, the vehicles are national assets that must be protected, properly accounted for and deployed strictly for authorised military purposes.
Beyond operational equipment, the Army Chief also described the Nightingale Club as an investment in the human element of military effectiveness.
He noted that building a capable and resilient military force required not only modern and functional equipment but also an environment that promotes the morale, cohesion and wellbeing of personnel.
Shaibu said the facility would provide personnel and their families with opportunities for recreation, healthy social interaction and relaxation, while helping to strengthen camaraderie and esprit de corps within the formation.
He commended the leadership and personnel of 1 Women Battalion, as well as the officers, soldiers, civilian staff, contractors and other stakeholders whose contributions led to the successful completion of the projects.
The Army Chief’s remarks underscored the importance of combining operational readiness with personnel welfare as the Nigerian Army continues to support national security efforts.
