Prioritise Troops’ Welfare, Mission Over Personal Gain – COAS Charges Army Commanders
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has charged Nigerian Army commanders at all levels to prioritise the welfare of their subordinates and the success of assigned missions above personal interest.
General Oluyede gave the charge on Saturday during his opening remarks at the 2025 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) Lecture held at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Kaduna.
Themed “The Soldier First Concept and the Future of the Nigerian Army: Shaping a New Culture for Army Transformation,” the lecture was delivered by former Chief of Army Staff, retired Lt.-Gen. Faruk Yahaya.
General Oluyede said the foundation of the Army’s ongoing transformation agenda is rooted in soldier-centric leadership — a leadership style that embraces selfless command, responsive administration, and enhanced operational efficiency.
“The renewed drive towards this concept has influenced our policies in some key areas. This is seen in our conscious promotion of a leadership style where commanders prioritise the needs of their subordinates and their mission above personal gain,” he said.
He emphasised that such leadership inspires trust, builds loyalty, and boosts troop morale, particularly in operational theatres where personnel face daunting risks and harsh conditions.
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The Army Chief noted that transformation must go beyond structural changes to cultivate a culture anchored on fairness, meritocracy, and open communication.
“A soldier who understands that his well-being is the priority of his commanders at all levels and the Chief of Army Staff will naturally be motivated and encouraged to perform better, even in the face of adversity,” Oluyede added.
As part of efforts to institutionalise the “Soldier First” concept, Oluyede announced new measures including enhanced training programmes, improved accommodation, better healthcare for soldiers and their families, and a merit-based promotion and reward system.
He directed the Army Headquarters Department of Training to review and align the curricula of all military training institutions with current and emerging operational realities. He also urged stronger collaboration with tri-service training schools.
“We must take deliberate steps to ensure that soldiers have the right leadership, the right tools, and the right motivation to carry out their duties effectively,” the Army Chief said.
General Oluyede reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to reforms that promote professionalism, enforce discipline, and uphold the core values of selfless service and integrity.
The event was graced by three former Chiefs of Army Staff — Lt.-Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika (rtd), Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai (rtd), and Lt.-Gen. Faruk Yahaya (rtd) — whom Oluyede hailed as enduring pillars of institutional legacy and military leadership.
By PRNigeria
