Nigerian Armed Forces Aim for Inclusivity: CDS Emphasizes Gender Equality in Military Operations
Nigerian Armed Forces Aim for Inclusivity: CDS Emphasizes Gender Equality in Military Operations
Nigerian Armed Forces Aim for Inclusivity: CDS Emphasizes Gender Equality in Military Operations
By Ayshatu S, Rabo
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, has called for a united effort to build a military that reflects Nigeria’s diversity and strength, emphasizing the importance of gender inclusivity in the armed forces.
Speaking through Rear Adm. Olumuyiwa Olotu, Commandant of the National Defence College (NDC), at the 2024 Annual Defence Headquarters Gender Conference in Abuja, Musa underscored the need for every member of the military, regardless of gender, to contribute meaningfully to society and peace efforts.
Now in its second year, the conference serves as a pivotal platform for integrating gender perspectives into all aspects of military operations. “This gathering of our new annual event stands as a testament to our collective commitment to fostering a more inclusive and equitable environment within our armed forces,” Musa said.
“We challenge ourselves to advance further in our pursuit of gender equality and to address the evolving dynamics within our armed forces.”
Musa noted that the continued involvement of women in global peace and security initiatives demonstrates the transformative impact of gender inclusivity, highlighting their unique contributions to peacekeeping and conflict resolution.
“It is imperative that we harness these potentials within our own armed forces,” he added.
The CDS further stressed that the conference is crucial in developing strategies to enhance operational effectiveness through gender mainstreaming, acknowledging former First Lady Dame Patience Jonathan for her unwavering support. Jonathan’s advocacy led to the historic admission of women into the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) in 2011, a move that opened doors for women in military service, including roles as combat pilots.
Rear Adm. Idi Abbas, Chief of Defence-Civil-Military Relations, reiterated the strategic necessity of gender equality in national security. He highlighted the progress made by the Defence Headquarters over the past year, including increased female representation in leadership roles and growing awareness of the importance of gender diversity.
“However, challenges remain,” Abbas noted. “We must continue to address issues such as gender-based violence, discrimination, and unconscious bias. This conference provides us with a valuable platform to share best practices, discuss innovative solutions, and affirm our commitment to creating a safe and inclusive environment for all personnel.”
The event underscored the military’s dedication to advancing gender equality, ensuring that the Nigerian Armed Forces continue to represent justice, respect, opportunity, and strength in their ranks.
[8/29, 8:15 PM] Sir Auwal Ahmad: COAS Urges Citizens to Back Security Forces in Efforts to Secure Nigeria
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, has called on Nigerians to continue supporting the government and security agencies in their ongoing efforts to create a safer and more prosperous nation.
He made the appeal on Thursday, August 29, 2024, while officially closing the Chief of Army Staff Combined Second and Third Quarters Conference 2024, held at the Council of Chiefs Hall in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
This message was conveyed in a press statement signed by Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, Director of Army Public Relations, and made available to journalists in Abuja.
During his address, General Lagbaja reassured Nigerians of the Army’s commitment to collaborating with other branches of the military and security agencies to enhance the protection of lives and property across the country.
He emphasised that the conference allowed theatre and formation commanders to share updates on their operations, with the goal of refining strategies for more effective results.
“We utilised the conference to fine-tune our activities for the last quarter of the year, particularly as we approach the busy ember months,” General Lagbaja stated.
He expressed optimism about the feedback from field commanders, noting that although Nigeria faces significant security challenges, they are surmountable. “We are indeed on the right path to victory,” he affirmed.
As a gesture of appreciation, the COAS presented the Nigerian Army Formation Command Appreciation and Recognition Plaque to three senior commanders, Major Generals HG Tafida, GM Mutkut, and MT Usman, who were recently reassigned from their command roles.
General Lagbaja also expressed his gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering trust in the Army’s leadership and steadfast support. He pledged the Army’s loyalty to the Constitution and its commitment to upholding national interests and values, reaffirming the military’s role in safeguarding the nation.
The conference concluded with renewed determination from the Army to overcome security challenges and a call to citizens to continue supporting efforts to ensure a safe and prosperous Nigeria.
Nigerian Armed Forces Aim for Inclusivity: CDS Emphasizes Gender Equality in Military Operations
