By Philip Nwosu
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has called on the combat support units of the Nigerian Army to develop strategies and operational concepts that address contemporary strategic challenges, especially as the force continues its fight against insurgency across the country.
General Oluyede spoke at the combined West African Social Activities (WASA) event organised by the Nigerian Army Medical Corps, Nigerian Army Corps of Engineers, Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps, Nigerian Army Corps of Supply and Transport, and the Nigerian Army College of Logistics, collectively referred to as the Combat Support Units.
He was represented by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division, Major General Farouk Umar Mijinyawa.
The Army Chief stated that the leadership of the force would continue to provide robust support to the Combat Service Support Corps to enable them to build, sustain, and enhance their capacities and capabilities, thereby improving operational efficiency.
He urged the Combat Support Units to ensure the effective delivery of logistic support to the fighting force, highlighting its importance as a crucial component in fulfilling the Nigerian Army’s constitutional role.
He emphasised that their services are critical to the welfare of Nigerian Army personnel and their families, noting that the corps are key stakeholders in achieving his vision and command philosophy. This philosophy is centred on consolidating the transformation of the Nigerian Army into a well-motivated, combat-ready force capable of effectively discharging its constitutional responsibilities within a joint and multi-agency environment.
His words: “This is the fifth edition of this joint celebration, and I urge you all to translate this synergy into the delivery of effective and efficient combat service support in the field. I am truly inspired by the positive synergy and spirit you have been able to galvanise to promote comradeship and esprit de corps in the Nigerian Army.
“At this juncture, it is expedient to remind you all that the Nigerian Army will continue to proudly and diligently discharge its constitutional roles in the defence of the territorial integrity of our dear nation.”
General Oluyede commended Nigerian Army troops for their efforts over the preceding year, noting that 2024 was both eventful and challenging. However, he praised their commendable commitment and dedication to duty, which led to remarkable successes.
He also commended the efforts of the Combat Service Support Corps and the commanders and commandants of the Nigerian Army College of Logistics and Management for maintaining the great tradition of jointly celebrating WASA.
Earlier in his address, the Commander of the Nigerian Army Corps of Supply and Transport, Major General Adekunle Adeyinka, described the West African Social Activities event as an annual occasion that provides a unique opportunity to celebrate achievements from the previous year while re-energising for areas needing improvement in the new year through social interaction with friends, families, colleagues, and partners.
He explained that the occasion serves as a platform to cement relationships, celebrate culture, and generate the invaluable synergy required for the Army’s activities in the new year.