Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) of the Nigerian Army, announced the acquisition of new combat enablers aimed at enhancing troop effectiveness across the country.

The announcement was made during the Chief of Army Staff Combined Second and Third Quarters Conference 2024, held on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, at the Council of Chiefs Hall in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, Army Spokesman, detailed the new assets, which include Mine-Resistance Ambush Protected (MRAP) Vehicles, rifles, and ammunition. These additions are already positively impacting troop operations and are expected to further improve the Army’s performance across various operational areas.

“These acquisitions will undoubtedly boost the capabilities of our troops and contribute to creating a more secure environment conducive to national economic prosperity,” General Lagbaja stated.

He highlighted that these efforts align with President Bola Tinubu’s vision of a well-equipped and professional Army. Lagbaja also noted the recent purchase of two BELL UH-1 Huey helicopters, which will support missions such as logistics and medical evacuation. Nigerian Army pilots have been training on these helicopters since their delivery on June 20, 2024, and they will soon be integrated into operational use.

Governor Pastor Umoh Eno of Akwa Ibom State, who inaugurated the conference, commended the restructuring efforts within the Nigerian Army and stressed the importance of maintaining apolitical stance and adherence to human rights principles.

He emphasized the value of actionable intelligence and inter-agency collaboration for successful security operations and praised the Army’s achievements across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones. Governor Eno also recognized the COAS for exemplary leadership and encouraged the Army to build on its existing successes.