Acting COAS Urges Soldiers to Stand Firm Against Bandits, Insurgents

• Acting Chief of Army Staff Olufemi Oluyede urged Nigerian soldiers to remain resolute against insurgents and bandits, emphasizing unwavering commitment in battle
• Oluyede assured troops that their welfare would be prioritized and challenged them to decisively tackle Nigeria’s security challenges together

The Acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has called on Nigerian Army officers and soldiers to remain resolute in the fight against insurgents, bandits, and other adversaries.

Addressing troops at the Jaji Military Cantonment in Kaduna State on Wednesday, Oluyede stressed the importance of not turning their backs on the enemy. This address followed his handover of the Infantry Corps command to Major General Abdul-Khalifa Ibrahim.

Oluyede served as commander of the infantry corps until his appointment as Acting COAS on October 30, 2024.

He assured the soldiers that under his leadership, the welfare of troops and their families would be a top priority. He noted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to addressing the Nigerian Army’s challenges.

Oluyede urged the troops to reciprocate this support by staying dedicated to their duty. “We are soldiers, and soldiering is what we must do. We have to fulfill our responsibility,” he said.

He challenged the soldiers to end the nation’s security issues, saying, “Nigerian soldiers are capable. When you commit to solving a problem, it will be solved. Promise me that you will resolve Nigeria’s security challenges.”

The Acting COAS emphasized the importance of standing firm in battle. “Never turn your back on the enemy; doing so makes you a target. Those causing unrest in our country are cowards. Be fearless, be bold, and face them head-on,” he urged.

Oluyede encouraged soldiers to choose their path decisively. “You must decide to either be a soldier or go home. Together, we will make Nigeria safer,” he said.

He reassured Nigerians of the army’s determination to tackle criminal elements and enhance the country’s security under his command.