In a renewed effort to strengthen discipline, uphold human rights, and promote professional conduct among its personnel, the Nigerian Army on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, held a one-day sensitization workshop at the Nigerian Army School of Military Engineering (NASME), Makurdi.

The workshop, directed by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General OO Oluyede NAM, was organized by the Department of Civil-Military Affairs (DCMA) and brought together officers and soldiers from the 401 Special Forces Brigade, NASME, and the Nigerian Army College of Environmental Science and Technology (NACEST).

Representing the Chief of Civil-Military Affairs, Major General GU Chibuisi, Major General Fadairo delivered the keynote address, describing the modern battlefield as both physical and perceptual. He stressed that soldiers’ actions or inactions could influence public perception, operational legitimacy, and diplomatic relations.

He noted that the Army has been making deliberate efforts to institutionalize respect for human rights through specialized training programs, human rights desks, civil society engagement, and partnerships with national and international organizations. According to him, “Respect for human rights is not a hindrance to operational effectiveness; rather, it enhances legitimacy, builds public trust, and strengthens civil-military relations.”

Fadairo also reminded troops of their role as custodians of family and societal values, highlighting growing concerns about cases of spousal and child abandonment. He urged soldiers to uphold responsible family living, warning that neglect in the home could lead to wider social dysfunction and indiscipline.

Earlier, the Commandant of NASME, Major General IE Ekpeyong, emphasized the relevance of the workshop to ongoing internal security operations across Nigeria. He urged participants to understand the boundaries of lawful engagement, particularly in civilian-populated areas, and to internalize the principles of human rights, international humanitarian law, and the Army’s operational code of conduct.

The workshop featured lectures on International Humanitarian Law, Professional Conduct, Drug Abuse Awareness, and Responsible Family Life. Speakers included renowned actor and advocate Mr. Osita Iheme, representatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), and senior serving and retired military personnel.

Participants actively engaged in interactive sessions, asking questions and seeking clarifications to ensure the knowledge gained could be applied both in the field and in personal life.

The event concluded with the presentation of souvenirs and a reaffirmation of the Army’s commitment to professionalism, discipline, and accountability. As part of the visit, the representative of the Chief of Civil-Military Affairs also paid a courtesy call on the Acting Commander, 401 Special Forces Brigade/Sector OPWS, Colonel KO Bukoye, at the Brigade Headquarters.