Major General Jamal Abdussalam, the General Officer Commanding 6 Division Nigerian Army, Port Harcourt Barracks, has urged troops to prepare for modern warfare challenges, stressing that the security environment is rapidly changing.
Speaking at the 2024 Planning Operations Cadre conference on Tuesday, Abdussalam emphasized the need for troops to adapt to the evolving security landscape.
The conference, themed “Enhancing Tactical-Level Command and Leadership through Effective Operations Planning and Capacity Development,” aimed to enhance the capacity of Nigerian Army personnel to tackle emerging security challenges.
He the development is consistent with Abdussalam’s commitment to improving the effectiveness of troops under his command.
The GOC emphasized the importance of adapting to the dynamic nature of modern warfare, where technology plays a crucial role.
He noted that the security environment is evolving rapidly, with multidimensional, complex, and often transnational challenges which include countering insurgency, terrorism, banditry, crude oil theft, and maintaining internal security.
To address these issues, according to him, innovation and adaptability in operations planning are essential.
“The theme of the operations planning cadre is apt, considering the dynamic nature of modern warfare and the increasing role of technology in shaping military operations.
“As we gather here today, it is imperative to remember that the security environment is evolving rapidly.
“The challenges we face today are multidimensional, complex, and often transnational. Whether it is countering insurgency, tackling terrorism or banditry, combating crude oil thieves and illegal bunkerers or maintaining the internal security, the need for innovation and adaptability in our operations planning process cannot be overemphasized,” he said.
Gen Abdussalam noted that the drive is in line with the Chief of Army Staff’s command philosophy, which aimed to transform the Nigerian Army into a well-trained, equipped, and highly motivated force.
He stated that the cadre provides a platform for resource persons and participants to develop effective plans, enhance operational planning skills, and make informed decisions in high-pressure situations.
He further stated that the Nigerian Army recognizes the need to evolve strategies and methodologies to stay ahead of potential adversaries, noting that the integration of new technologies, such as artificial intelligence, drones, cyber capabilities, and advanced surveillance systems, is critical to achieving mission success.
“To maintain our edge and stay ahead of potential adversaries, we must continuously evolve strategies and methodologies. This cadre also provides us with an excellent opportunity to discuss and explore how new technologies such as artificial intelligence, drones, cyber capabilities and advanced surveillance Systems can be integrated into our operations planning process.”
However, the GOC said the ability of troops to effectively harness technology has become paramount in a joint environment where coordination between different services and agencies is crucial.
While highlighting the need for collaboration, he stated that the Army no longer exist in isolation, but requires collaboration across multiple domains and partners.
He said: “As commanders, we must be able to synchronize our efforts, share intelligence and make informed decisions in real-time. This demands a new way of thinking and planning which embraces innovation and technological advancement. As we embark on this cadre, I urge you all to approach the discussions with an open mind and willingness to learn.”