Don't Let Nigeria Down, Defence Chief Charges Commanders, Troops

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, yesterday charged commanders and troops of the Nigerian Army not to let the nation down in the ongoing efforts to quell emerging security challenges across the country.

This came as he enjoined the military to provide support to the police in the forthcoming off-cycle polls in Imo, Kogi and Bayelsa States.

The defence chief gave the charge after he was briefed on operational engagements of troops in various theatres of operations in the country at the Army Headquarters Operations Centre during a visit to the Army Headquarters in Abuja yesterday.

Speaking after receiving a comprehensive operations briefing, Musa commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen Taoreed Lagbaja, principal staff officers, field commanders and troops for their dedication and sacrifice, adding that military service remained a selfless service to humanity and must statutorily support civil authorities.

The defence chief admonished commanders at all levels to be focused, committed and professional in steering the affairs of their various commands to expedite the restoration of peace and stability in the country.

He charged them to lead by example and provide result oriented leadership and mentorship to the junior leaders of the Nigerian Army.

Musa urged the troops of the Nigerian Army to remain resilient and ensure inter-agency cooperation in the conduct of their operations to mitigate security challenges. He assured the troops of the support of President Bola Tinubu.

He appreciated the president for his interventions in enhancing the capacity of the Armed Forces of Nigeria since his assumption of office.

"We have a task ahead and we cannot afford to let our country down. We have the support of Mr President and the nation at large,"he said.

He further charged the troops to support the lead agency in the forthcoming elections and strictly adhere to the codes of conduct guiding troops' roles during polls.