Army tackles trauma, drug abuse among personnel
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By Rita Iliya
The Nigerian Army is working to address Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and drug abuse among its personnel, particularly those deployed in combat.
The Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, who was a special guest of honour, disclosed this at a combined seminar on Intensifying Warrior Ethos, PTSD and Drug Abuse in Kontagora.
The News Agency (NAN) reports that the seminar titled: “From Trauma to Triumph: Building Combat Ready Warriors in the Nigerian Army, was organised for officers of Nigerian army Corps of Artillery and Nigerian Army Training Center.
Oluyede, represented by Maj.-Gen. John Sokoya, Commander, the Nigerian Army Training Centre, Kontagora, emphasised the importance of warrior ethos in the army, particularly in the face of contemporary security challenges.
“The warrior ethos embodies a deep sense of commitment, an intangible force that inspires soldiers to give their best in any situation.
“Today, warrior ethos is increasingly threatened by societal pressure and the growing trend of illicit use of drugs among army personnel,” he said.
He said the seminar aligned with his command philosophy which aimed to transform Nigerian army into a well motivated and combat ready force.
The COAS added that the seminar aimed to create awareness on the devastating effects of drug abuse and highlight ways to identify and manage PTSD
He said the seminar would present opportunity for troops to strengthen their inherent warrior ethos, enhance cohesiveness in military operations and promote the core values of discipline, loyalty and selfless service.
He reiterated the army’s commitment to providing effective leadership, sound administration, professionalism, and combat readiness to better secure the territorial integrity of the nation.
Earlier in his welcome address, Maj.-Gen. Olusegin Abai, Chief of Transformation and Innovation, said the seminar was designed to enhance the leadership capacity of senior and middle cadre officers and to instill warrior ethos among troops.
Abai, represented by Maj.-Gen. Collins Adetoba, the Deputy Chief of Transformation and Innovation, added that the workshop is aimed at creating awareness on the devastating effects of drug abuse.
“It will also highlight ways to identify and manage PTSD enhancing combat readiness,” he said.
NAN reports that presentations were made on Intensifying Warrior Ethos in the Nigerian Army by retired Maj. Gen. Charles Ofoche and Combat Stress Management and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in the Nigerian Army by retired Lt. Col. Susan Dibal.
Also, Ibrahim Chikaji, the Area Commander of the NDLEA Niger Command, presented a lecture on Drug and Substance Abuse: Impact on Operational Effectiveness of the Nigerian Army. (NAN)
Edited by Sadiya Hamza
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