Defeat of banditry, insurgency my topmost priority — COAS
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Faruk Yahaya, said the defeat of insurgency, banditry and other acts of criminality remained his top priority.
Yahaya stated this at a workshop on Future Improvised Explosive Device (IED) Challenges, Enemy Tactics, Techniques and Procedures and Threat Mitigation, on Tuesday in Makurdi.
“It is with this commitment in mind that the procurement of equipment and realistic training of personnel are embarked upon.
“The research and development drive for indigenous production of some of our requirements is ongoing.
“The local production of the Ode rechargeable blasting device and the remote control jammers are commendable but more can be done,” Yahaya said.
Represented by the Commander, Operation Whirl Stroke, Maj.- Gen. Sunday Igbinomwanhia, the COAS pledged that the Nigerian Army would continue to support local production of her defence needs.
“I am therefore glad that the objectives of this workshop are in line with my desire to defeat insurgency by ensuring that our troops have freedom of action through effective Counter Improvised Explosive Device (CIED) operations.
“Effective CIED operations has contributed in no small measure towards the recent successes recorded against Boko Haram and other terrorist groups as well as various unscrupulous elements across the Nation.
“It is also heartwarming to note that in line with my vision to promote jointness in operations, the Nigerian Army has continued to contribute successfully in several joint operations across the country,” he said.
Earlier, the Commander Corps of Engineers, Maj.-Gen. P.E Eromosele, said that the Army was countering the use of IEDs by insurgents.
This he said was to insulate troops from IEDs unpleasant effects on the outcomes of ongoing military operations.
“The Nigerian Army is however without doubt determined to achieve victory in the ongoing operations despite the threat posed by the use of these IEDs.
“This determination is manifest in the numerous provision of CIED related equipment, the establishment of the CIED Centre of Excellence.
“The establishment of CIED squadrons in all engineer brigades and trainings on CIED in liaison with foreign partners amongst others,” Eromosele said.
He assured that Army Engineers would continue to render IEDs ineffective against troops engaged in various operations, through sound training, proper planning and use of correct equipment.
