The Nigerian Army has called on its troops to embrace modern warfare strategies to address the nation’s evolving security challenges, including insurgency, banditry, terrorism, and crude oil theft. This call was made by Major General Jamal Abdussalam, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 6th Division, during the 2024 Operations Planning Cadre Conference held at the Port Harcourt Barracks on Tuesday.
Maj.-Gen. Abdussalam emphasized the importance of adapting to the dynamic nature of modern warfare, particularly in the face of rapidly evolving threats that are multidimensional, complex, and often transnational. He stressed the critical role of technology in shaping military operations and the need for the Nigerian Army to innovate and stay ahead of adversaries.
“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. The security environment is evolving rapidly, and the challenges we face today are multidimensional, complex, and often transnational,” Abdussalam said.
He outlined the diverse challenges the Army faces, including countering insurgency, terrorism, banditry, and illegal oil bunkering. He stressed that success in these areas hinges on innovation and adaptability in planning and operations.
The GOC also highlighted the importance of aligning with the Chief of Army Staff’s command philosophy, which aims to transform the Nigerian Army into a well-trained, equipped, and motivated force. The conference, he noted, provided a platform for participants to develop effective operational plans, enhance decision-making skills, and adapt to high-pressure situations.
“To maintain our edge and stay ahead of potential adversaries, we must continuously evolve strategies and methodologies. This cadre provides us with an excellent opportunity to explore how new technologies such as artificial intelligence, drones, cyber capabilities, and advanced surveillance systems can be integrated into our operations planning process,” he added.
Maj.-Gen. Abdussalam stressed that the ability of troops to harness modern technology had become crucial, particularly in coordinating operations across different services and agencies. He emphasized the need for collaboration and intelligence-sharing across multiple domains, urging commanders to adopt innovative approaches to planning and decision-making.
“As commanders, we must synchronize our efforts, share intelligence, and make informed decisions in real-time. This demands a new way of thinking and planning that embraces innovation and technological advancement,” he said, encouraging participants to approach the discussions with an open mind and a willingness to learn.
The conference aims to equip Nigerian Army personnel with the tools and knowledge needed to adapt to modern security challenges, ensuring the Army remains a formidable force in maintaining national security.
