Army Chief, others undergo Nigerian language test

The Nigerian Army at the Army Headquarters Conference Room, conducted a test for its senior officers in Hausa, Igbo and Yoruba languages. The test which has 50 senior officers in attendance is part of the Nigerian Army’s effort towards ensuring that all personnel are proficient in the use of the three major Nigerian languages.

The test came after eight months of intensive lecture organised by the Army Headquarters for the senior officers. It is believed that understanding these languages will aid the troops while carrying out their constitutional roles particularly during internal security operations across the country. This will also enhance mutual cooperation between the Nigerian Army and the general public.

Senior officers that participated in the test include, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lieutenant General Tukur Yusufu Buratai, Principal Staff Officers of the Army Headquarters, Corps Commanders, Directors, among others.

Speaking at the end of the test, the COAS commended the officers for their conduct throughout the period of the test, adding that the result will be announced soon and urged them to prepare for another exam next week.

It would be recalled that the COAS on assumption of office enjoined all personnel to learn the three major Nigerian languages as part of deliberate effort aimed at improving communication skill among the troops.

Meanwhile,  the troops of   Operation LAFIYA DOLE have been charged to  remain professional  in the conduct of the ongoing Counter Terrorism and Counter Insurgency Operations against Boko Haram insurgents in the North East.

The Commander operation LAFIYA DOLE  Major General Abba Dikko, gave the charge today in his address to troops during an operational visit to Forward Operational Base at Delwa in Konduga Local Government Area of Borno State. 

He stated that the visit was necessary to enable  him  ascertain the well being of the troops and the security situation in the general area..

He also commended the troops for their gallantry and sacrifice in the defence of national security and charged them to exhibit high sense of discipline and respect for their immediate commanders and the Army hierarchy. 

He pointed out that, indiscipline could mar the entire achievements so far made in the Counter insurgency and Counter terrorism operations in the North East, urging the troops to always communicate their challenges on time through the appropriate  channels to enable them receive prompt attention.  

"Your welfare in this operation is paramount to me as your",  he added. He assured the troops of their rotation as soon as they are due. 

Responding, the Commander Forward Operational Base, Flight Lieutenant Martin Enwerem gave assurance of the troops loyalty and resilience to combat terrorism and insurgency in the region.