Sam Kaye
In the midst of the recent upsurge of hostilities in the north East war theatre of Hadin Kai, the Nigerian Army Chief Lt General Olufemi Oluyede has unveiled new “Vanquish Armoured Tankers” to complement existing platforms in the lingering insurgency war.
The tankers were handed over to his command and control representative, and theatre Commander of the North East ‘Operation Hadin Kai’, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar today.
Each of the New Vanquish Armoured Tankers according to the contractor Engineer Ishaku Duwa is equipped with night vision goggles which can enable troops patrol effectively in the night.
These tankers can equally move for over 80 kms on flat tyres, when encountered with such challenges all suspension change with 360° (Degree) protection.
The equipment is among many others which the Chief of Defense staff General Chris Musa had promised would be introduced into the theatre soon to assist troops fight the lingering insurgency war which is nearing two decades with no clear sight of the end yet.
Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede said that the Nigerian Army under his leadership would in the next coming weeks induct more Combat Enablers (CEs) into the theatre of operations in order to end menace of Boko Haram/ISWAP, banditry, kidnappings and other forms of criminalities bedevilling the nation.
He however noted that there was need to understand that the strength of the Nigerian Army does not solely lie in . weapons they place on the battlefield, but more in the will of gallant soldiers who wield them.
Declaring the Conference closed, Friday General Oluyede said: ” It was with deep sense of gratitude and fulfilment that I join you today to draw the curtains on this auspicious occasion.
“You will recall that I stated in my address yesterday that this gathering was to afford participants the opportunity to identify areas for improvement and proffer practical solutions that will strengthen our effectiveness in
securing our nation.
“It is worthy to note that the depth of discourse and clarity of thought expressed during our sessions reflected the intellectual rigour and strategic foresight required to thrust the Nigerian Army into a future filled with unprecedented possibilities.
“I therefore make bold to say that the objectives of this first bi-annual Conference has largely been achieved judging by the well-articulated inputs and contributions that have surpassed my expectations, as concerted efforts will be made to implement these suggested measures in our current and future
engagements.
“As a fallout of our deliberations, the Nigerian Army will in the coming weeks, induct more combat enablers into our operations.
“However, we need to understand that the strength of the Nigerian Army does not solely lie in the weapons we place on the battlefield, but more in the will of our soldiers who wield them.
“Accordingly, it behoves on everyone seated here to show exemplary leadership, to mentor and guide
the next generation on the right path.
“We will play our role and there will
come a time where it will be their turn to take the reins of leadership at every level. Hence, our actions today, will resonate in the future and our achievements will form the foundation of their beginning.
“Today, we are faced with an adversary that threatens the very fabric of our socio- cultural heritage. They seek to disrupt our way of life and destroy the
society that our forefathers built.
“We will not allow such to happen. There is no contesting our decision to completely neutralize these detractors to peace. Thus, I charge each and every officer and soldier to spare no quarter in running these terrorists and criminals
to the ground”. He stated.
The Army chief also lauded the organizers of the Conference led by the Chief Host, who is also the Theatre Commander, ‘Operation Hadin Kai’, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar for their tireless efforts which led to the successful engagement.
Highlight of the closing ceremony was presentation of Awards and Souvenirs to some Major Generals, Commanding Officers and Heads of various Army Formations/Institutions who had distinguished themselves in the course of discharging their mandates to their fatherland. #(www.krestnews.com).