The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Kenneth Minimah, says much caution and patience are needed by the military in its effort to rescue the over 200 girls abducted by a terrorist group, Boko Haram, as any form of force against the insurgents could be counterproductive.
Addressing some military personnel on Saturday during the passing out ceremony of officers of Direct Short Service Course 21 who were decorated with the rank of Lieutenants at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji in Kaduna State, Lieutenant General Minimah stressed the need for the officials to be committed to the service of the nation.
The young men had spent six months at the college in Jaji, where they were exposed to rigorous training and lectures.
Their commissioning into the Nigerian Army is part of efforts by the military authorities to increase the number of its personnel tackling the security challenges currently confronting the nation.
The arrival of the army chief and other top military chiefs signalled the beginning of the ceremony that witnessed a colourful parade and match pass.
It was indeed a special moment not only for the officers, but also for their families, friends and well-wishers who were also on ground to witness the event.
The ceremony was held at the Ihejirika Conference Hall where the Chief of Army Staff administered the oath of allegiance on the officers and officially confirmed their enlistment into the Nigerian Army.
Addressing the graduating officers, Lieutenant General Minimah reminded them of the enormous security challenges currently facing the nation and the roles they were expected to play towards surmounting such challenges.
he further called on all Nigerians to support the Military in the war against terror.
” Terrorism is a new wave of warfare and it requires time and support. It is not like breaking into a house and bringing out a portfolio. A lot of caution has to be taken in rescuing the Chibok Girls.
“Terrorism is not a war of the Nigerian Army alone. It is a war of the Nigerian state and nation. The civilians, the ordinary Nigerian and all levels and segment of the Nigerian state should be involved in this war,” he said.
While imploring the officers to respect constituted authorities and democratic norms, the army boss said new strategies had been developed geared towards containing the Boko Haram insurgency in the northeast.
With the intensive training given to the officers during their six months stay at the college and the oath of allegiance to protect their fatherland, it is expected that they will join hands with their colleagues already in the field towards tackling terrorism.
Source: Channels TV