The Nigerian Army has intensified efforts to tackle Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and drug abuse among its personnel, especially those in combat roles.
This was made known by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, during the opening of a combined seminar on Intensifying Warrior Ethos, PTSD, and Drug Abuse held in Kontagora. Oluyede, who was represented by Maj.-Gen. John Sokoya, Commander of the Nigerian Army Training Centre, underscored the critical role of warrior ethos in navigating present-day security challenges.
“The warrior ethos embodies a deep sense of commitment, an intangible force that inspires soldiers to give their best in any situation,” he said.
“Today, warrior ethos is increasingly threatened by societal pressure and the growing trend of illicit use of drugs among army personnel.”
Oluyede explained that the seminar supports his command philosophy aimed at transforming the Nigerian Army into a motivated and combat-ready force. According to him, it was designed to reinforce warrior ethos, raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse, and provide strategies for identifying and managing PTSD.
He said the initiative would help troops solidify their inherent warrior values, improve operational cohesiveness, and promote the army’s core principles of discipline, loyalty, and selfless service.
The COAS reaffirmed the army’s dedication to effective leadership, sound administration, professionalism, and combat preparedness in protecting Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
In his welcome address, Maj.-Gen. Olusegin Abai, Chief of Transformation and Innovation, said the seminar was meant to boost leadership skills among senior and mid-level officers and instil strong warrior values among soldiers. Abai, represented by Maj.-Gen. Collins Adetoba, Deputy Chief of Transformation and Innovation, noted that the event also aimed to increase awareness about drug abuse and its implications.
“It will also highlight ways to identify and manage PTSD, enhancing combat readiness,” he said.
Presentations at the seminar included “Intensifying Warrior Ethos in the Nigerian Army” by Maj.-Gen. Charles Ofoche (Rtd), and “Combat Stress Management and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in the Nigerian Army” by Lt.-Col. Susan Dibal (Rtd).
In addition, Ibrahim Chikaji, Area Commander of the NDLEA Niger Command, delivered a lecture titled “Drug and Substance Abuse: Impact on Operational Effectiveness of the Nigerian Army.”
(NAN)