The Chief of Army Staff, COAS, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has showered encomium on the Nigerian Army for its selfless efforts in combating banditry and terrorism in the country.

Speaking on Friday at the Army Headquarters Conference Room during the presentation of the COAS Research Paper by the Course participants, COAS praised Nigerian Army participants of National Defence of National Defence College (NDC), Course 33, for proffering innovative solutions to national security challenges.

The event titled “Directed Energy Weapons and National Security: Strategic Options for the NA by 2040” was in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the award of the prestigious Fellow Defence College, which explores the potential of directed energy weapons in enhancing national security.

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS) commended the participants for their forward-thinking and innovative strategies in tackling emerging security challenges. He encouraged them to persevere and continue developing practical solutions, emphasising that the College serves as a stronghold for military strategy and capacity development.

Additionally, the Army Chief urged the Department of Army Transformation and Innovation to enhance its capabilities and strengthen partnerships with relevant stakeholders to aid in capacity development.

In his presentation, Rear Admiral James Okosun, the Commandant of the National Defence College, emphasised that the College’s training modules offer participants the opportunity to examine major contemporary challenges in national security and development.

These challenges particularly affect the operational efficiency and effectiveness of the Armed Forces of Nigeria. Admiral Okosun revealed that the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) had previously tasked the Course 33 participants with researching topics and proposing practical strategies that could significantly benefit the Nigerian Army in the future.

He expressed his deep appreciation to the COAS for the extensive support provided to the National Defence College, especially for approving the research topics, and pledged to continue collaborating with the Nigerian Army.