General Olufemi Oluyede, Chief of Defence Staff, has reiterated the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s dedication to functioning as a people-centered, morally sound, and professionally responsible military.
Oluyede made this statement during the opening ceremony of the Human Security and Gender Advisers Course, which took place at the Nigerian Army Resource Center in Asokoro, Abuja, according to a post made on DHQ’s X handle on Tuesday by Major General Samaila Uba, Director of Defense Information.
The British Defence Staff was praised by the CDS, represented by Major General Ibrahim Lassa, Chief of Defence Standards and Evaluation, for their consistent assistance and collaboration in enhancing the AFN’s operational efficacy, especially in the field of civil-military interactions.
Individuals taking part in the capacity building
He pointed out that the cooperation is a reflection of Nigeria and the UK’s long-standing defense alliance, which is founded on a shared commitment to people-oriented approaches to national security.
Asymmetric warfare, violent extremism, communal disputes, transnational crimes, and humanitarian crises that directly impact the civilian population are all characteristics of Nigeria’s security environment, which Oluyede noted is still complicated and multifaceted.
The protection of lives, the upholding of human dignity, and the development of social resilience are all essential components of contemporary security initiatives that go beyond territorial defense.
He stated, “The course is in line with his strategic vision of consolidating the AFN’s capacities through improved jointness, a reinforced operational posture, improved welfare initiatives, and sound administration.”
According to him, these initiatives are meant to uphold the Armed Forces’ primary responsibility of ensuring Nigeria’s prosperity and sovereignty through a whole-of-government strategy.
“The AFN is being repositioned as a force that is not only operationally capable but also ethically grounded, people-centered, and responsive to the sociocultural realities of its operational environment,” he continued.
The CDS also emphasized that civilian protection, cooperation with civilian institutions, and preemptive action are now essential elements of military efficiency. He defined gender advisory and human security roles as force multipliers that increase mission sustainability, broaden operational reach, and boost legitimacy.
Oluyede urged students to fully utilize the course as a forum for professional networking, critical reflection, and information sharing, emphasizing that the skills learned must be put to use in field deployments, operations planning, and interactions with civilian populations.
Earlier in his welcome speech, Rear Admiral Saburi Lawal, Chief of Defense Civil-Military Relations, characterized the course as an important endeavor to improve the professional proficiency of Nigeria’s security institutions.
According to him, participants were carefully chosen to hold advisory positions in the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, the Nigeria Police Force, and the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
Lawal expressed optimism that the training will improve civil-military cooperation, foster professionalism, and increase public confidence in security agencies.
He asked participants to approach the program with professionalism, commitment, and an open mind.
He went on to say that in order to support its personnel’s professional growth and capacity building, the Armed Forces of Nigeria will keep working with regional and global partners.
