Maj.-Gen Hassan Dada, the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 82 Division, Nigerian Army, has charged 52 graduating officers of Operational Planning Cadre on teamwork, discipline, professionalism and joint action during operations.
Dada gave the charge on Friday in Enugu while declaring close the 82 Division Operational Planning Cadre training held between Oct. 16 and Oct. 20, 2023.
He said that the training had exposed all the participants to the need to operate in joint environment with others, notwithstanding security formations and specialties.
“With this, the issue of rivalry would have been removed as currently being propagated by our bosses,” he said.
According to him, “I therefore thank the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, for his visionary leadership in providing direction for this valuable and innovative training which has enhanced our capabilities in conducting our current and future operations.
“This cadre is in line with the Command Philosophy of the COAS which is to Transform the Nigerian Army into a Well-Trained, Equipped and Highly-Motivated Force towards achieving ‘Our Constitutional Responsibility within a Joint Environment’.
“In concrete terms, the contemporary security environment does not assure any single service or security agency success if it does not work jointly with others,” the GOC said.
He said with the approval of the Army Headquarters, the participants were expanded by two officers from Nigerian Air-Force and Nigeria Police as well as three officers from NDLEA and NSCDC to enjoin desired cooperation towards attaining a well-secured nation.
The GOC said: “Judging from the enthusiasm generated from presentation on selected topics, I am certain that the objectives of this Cadre have been largely realised.
“I am aware that during this Cadre you were extensively taken on the Intelligence Preparation of the Environment (IPE) and the Military Decisions Making Process (MDMP) which offers proven analytical process that will assist you in developing, integrating and synchronizing your plans.
“The knowledge and skills you have acquired will undoubtedly prove crucial to your success in the asymmetric warfare situations we combat today.
“The practical scenarios that have been simulated have undoubtedly enhanced your understanding of the complex crises situations and how to manage them.”
Dada also advised graduating officers to put into practice all they had learnt as they go back to their respective units, adding: “Remember to continuously brief your men as that is the only way that you can be on the same pedestal.
“Whatever you have learnt here must be shared with your men on the ground as you will need them to operate with you to achieve meaningful success,” he added.
High points of the closing ceremony were the issuance of certificates to the graduating officers and souvenirs to facilitators of the training and heads of security agencies. (NAN)