The Nigerian Army has presented 2023 merit awards to officers and men of the force who have distinguished themselves in various examinations conducted.

Presenting the award to soldiers in the TRADOC officers mess in Minna, Niger State, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja, said the award is a laudable initiative worthy of innovation to encourage officers to prepare adequately for future Nigerian examinations.

The COAS, represented by the Director Training, Nigerian Army Headquarters, Major General M.G. Mohammed, congratulated all the recipients for not only passing the examinations but for excelling and winning the award.

He explained that the Training and Doctrine Command, Nigeria Army, is saddled with the responsibility of conducting the exams to determine the officers career progression and criteria used in sending officers for career courses in Nigeria as well as corresponding courses abroad.

The Army Chief noted that the 2023 merit award was the third in the series, adding that it was meant to encourage junior commanders to strive for excellence to improve professionalism which aligns with his philosophy to transform the Nigerian army into a well-trained and highly motivated force towards achieving the constitutional responsibilities within a joint environment.

General Lagbaja commended the efforts of the commander TRADOC, the merit award organizing committee and examination team who have worked assiduously throughout the year to maintain high standard in the conduct of all examinations, and other activities as well.

“I appreciate the unwavering support of President Bola Tinubu, the Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, as well as the Minister of Defence, the Minister of State for Defence, members of the National Assembly, and the Chief of Defence Staff for their guidance in defence sector reform. My sincere thanks also go to retired senior colleagues, overseers, and invited guests for honoring us today,” Lagbaja said.

He also took time to commission projects which was completed, and appreciated the efforts of the Doctrine Command for their completion and urging beneficiaries to ensure their proper maintenance.

Earlier, the Commander TRADOC, Major General Kelvin O. Aligbe, said the award aims to recognize and reward outstanding achievements, fostering a culture of hard work and healthy competition among officers within the Nigerian army.

General Kelvin further stated that this is the third edition of the prestigious award series, following successful events in MENA and Abuja in 2021 and 2022, respectively.

“These awards play a crucial role in enhancing the overall administrative efficiency and operational effectiveness of the Nigerian army, aligning with the Chief of Administration’s command philosophy. Notably, the assessments conducted by TRADOC have led to significant improvements in the quality of training at Nigerian Army schools and administration across various formations nationwide.” Kelvin added.

“An important development in this year’s award is the exclusion of the Best Division Award based on operational readiness. Recognizing the unique profiles and resource variations among divisions, a new approach will assess divisions based on the activities of their training schools starting from 2024. This shift aims to ensure a fair evaluation that considers the specific tasks each division undertakes.”

Major General Kelvin Aligbe, therefore called on all divisions to provide training directions that will inspire the necessary impetus for producing mission-capable troops. TRADOC will evaluate divisions based on the frequency and quality of training, focusing on enhancing fighting skills and warrior ethos.

According to the Commandant Preliminary evaluations through TRADOC’s prism indicate that the Nigerian Army has met its training objectives for 2023. The final report will be presented at the Chief of Army Staff Conference in May, 2024.

Major General Aligbe also appreciate the media most for contributing significantly to the success of the recently concluded Exercises at the TRADOC and also appreciate the Chief of Army Staff and related support staff for their unwavering support, which enabled the completion of several projects and the institutionalization of the TRADOC Educational Support Program.

“We extend heartfelt thanks to commanders, command downs, and the entire Nigerian Army for their support and cooperation throughout 2023. As we look ahead, we anticipate even greater responsibilities and assignments in line with our motto, “Towards Greater Heights.”

“I Congratulations all the awardees, and a warm welcome to our special guests. May you enjoy a pleasant time as we savor this ceremony. Thank you very much, and God bless you all.” Commandant TRADOC.

Highlights of the event include the award presentations and musical entertainment by the cultural groups.