The Nigerian Army says the complex security challenges faced across the country demand strong and authentic leadership at all levels.

The general officer commanding, 1 Division, Nigerian Army, Mayirenso Saraso, stated this at a week-long ‘Operations Planning Cadre 2025’ for officers in the division’s area of responsibility.

Mr Saraso, the commander of Sector 1 of Operations Fansan Yamma North-West, said, “This cadre is a crucial platform designed to strengthen our operational planning capabilities while enhancing the leadership skills of our junior commanders.”

According to him, this also aligns with the chief of army staff’s command philosophy, which is “to consolidate the transformation of the Nigerian Army towards bequeathing a well-motivated and combat-ready force that can effectively discharge its constitutional responsibilities within a joint and multi-agency environment.”

Mr Sarasoo said the philosophy aptly captured the leadership role at all levels of command, particularly at the junior level.

Mr Saraso said, “Junior leaders such as platoon commanders, company commanders, and non-commissioned officers are often at the forefront of our operations.”

The GOC said their ability to make sound decisions underscored the vital role of junior commanders in ensuring missions’ success and operational efficiency.

He, therefore, said investing in their development was not just necessary but essential for achieving operational effectiveness.

Mr Saraso said the cadre allowed participants to refine their leadership and planning skills through interactive sessions, practical exercises, and shared experiences.

He said the training was being conducted in collaboration with other security agencies in the state.

Mr Saraso added, “In a joint environment like ours, where coordination between different services and agencies is crucial, our operations no longer exist in isolation but require collaboration across multiple domains and partners.

“As commanders, we must be able to synchronise our efforts, share
intelligence and make informed decisions in real-time.”

The GOC said the initiative significantly strengthened inter-agency cooperation and fostered a unified approach to security operations.

“The complex security challenges we face today demand strong and authentic leadership at all levels, particularly at the junior command level, where tactical decisions are made in real-time.

“Your ability to lead effectively, make quick and informed decisions, and coordinate seamlessly with other security agencies is critical to achieving our collective security objectives.

“This cadre, therefore, serves as an important platform for developing
these leadership qualities through practical training, operational planning
exercises, and inter-agency collaboration,“ he said.

(NAN)