The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has directed Nigerian Army Battalion Commanders to effectively tackle emerging security threats by demonstrating exemplary leadership in the command of their troops. He gave the directive on Thursday, March 13, 2025, while addressing Battalion Commanders at the just-concluded First Commanding Officers' Workshop for 2025, held at the Headquarters 2 Division, Nigerian Army, during his working tour and assessment of the Division's operational and administrative activities.

General Oluyede emphasized that Battalion Commanders serve as a crucial bridge between operational and tactical command levels and must uphold the principles of responsibility, accountability, and moral courage to lead their troops effectively in both combat and peacetime. He urged them to brace up and take a decisive approach in addressing security threats within their areas of responsibility. He described the theme of the workshop, "Enhancing Tactical Level Command and Leadership Within a Joint Environment," as timely and in alignment with his command philosophy to transform the Nigerian Army. He also called on them to remain steadfast in their loyalty to the government and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The COAS commended the Chief of Training (Army), Major General Sadiq Ndalolo, and his team for organizing the capacity development workshop. He also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support in advancing the Nigerian Army’s transformation agenda. The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division, Major General Obinna Onubogu, highlighted that the workshop aimed to strengthen the commitment of Battalion Commanders to the COAS’ vision of a highly motivated and combat-ready army. He noted that it would improve their tactical operations, enhance strategic planning, and refine their leadership skills for greater operational and administrative efficiency across theaters of operation.

During an address to troops at the Garrison Parade Ground, General Oluyede commended their dedication in combating security challenges across the country and reassured them that their welfare remains a top priority. He outlined ongoing initiatives, including the regular provision of uniforms, kits, and combat enablers, improved office and residential accommodations, access to soft loan schemes, increased Ration Cash Allowance (RCA), and affordable housing initiatives to support personnel post-service.

As part of efforts to enhance troops' living and working conditions, the COAS commissioned the 2 Division Petroleum, Oil, and Lubricants (POL) Station at Adekunle Fajuyi Cantonment and a Military Police Holding Facility at Mokola Barracks. He also approved the immediate rehabilitation of the Warrant Officers' and Sergeants' Mess at Adekunle Fajuyi Cantonment and the 81 Battalion Officers' Mess.