The Nigerian Army has called on
Troops have been urged to deploy modern warfare strategies in the rapidly evolving security environment to defeat insurgency, banditry, terrorism and crude oil theft.
The Nigerian Army gave them this charge on Tuesday during the 2024 Planning Operations Cadre Conference, in Port Harcourt.
Speaking at the conference,the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 6 Division Nigerian Army, Port Harcourt Barracks, Maj.-Gen. Jamal Abdussalam harped on the importance of adapting to the dynamic nature of modern warfare, where he said technology played a crucial role observing that the security environment was evolving rapidly with multidimensional, complex, and often transnational challenges.
“The theme of the operations planning cadre is apt, considering the dynamic nature of modern warfare and the increasing role of technology in shaping military operations.
“As we gather here today, it is imperative to remember that the security environment is evolving rapidly.The challenges we face today are multidimensional, complex, and often transnational.
“Whether it is countering insurgency, tackling terrorism or banditry, combating crude oil thieves and illegal bunkerers or maintaining internal security, the need for innovation and adaptability in our operations planning process cannot be overemphasized,” said Abdussalam.
The GOC noted that the drive was in line with the Chief of Army Staff’s command philosophy, designed to transform the Nigerian Army into a well-trained, equipped, and highly motivated force.
He said that the cadre provided a platform for resource persons and participants to develop effective plans, enhance operational planning skills, and make informed decisions in high-pressure situations.
Abdussalam added that the Nigerian Army recognized the need to evolve strategies and methodologies to stay ahead of potential adversaries, noting that the integration of new technologies, such as artificial intelligence, drones, cyber capabilities, and advanced surveillance systems, was critical to achieving successful missions.
He said: “To maintain our edge and stay ahead of potential adversaries, we must continuously evolve strategies and methodologies. This cadre also provides us with an excellent opportunity to discuss and explore how new technologies such as artificial intelligence, drones, cyber capabilities and advanced surveillance Systems can be integrated into our operations planning process.”
The GOC insisted the ability of troops to effectively harness technology had become paramount in a joint environment involving coordination among different services and agencies.
He highlighted the need for collaboration, saying that the Army no longer existed in isolation, but required partnership across multiple domains and partners.
He said: “As commanders, we must be able to synchronize our efforts, share intlligence and make informed decisions in real-time. This demands a new way of thinking and planning which embraces innovation and technological advancement. As we embark on this cadre, I urge you all to approach the discussions with an open mind and willingness to learn.”