Nigerian Army Warns Soldiers Against Drug, Substance Abuse

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The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has warned personnel of the Nigerian Army against engaging in drugs and substance abuse. He stated this during the commencement of a 4-day seminar on “Transformational Leadership, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder And Drug/Substance Abuse” held at the 4 Special Forces Command, Doma, Nasarawa State.

The seminar aims to build trust and inspire soldiers with a shared vision, empower troops to adapt quickly to an unpredictable environment, preserve troops' morale and combat readiness by addressing mental health challenges and curbing substance abuse.

The COAS said the seminar forms part of ongoing efforts to sensitise junior and middle cadre officers on the need to adopt appropriate leadership style and values to achieve overwhelming success.

“We cannot achieve our operational objectives if the mental health of our troops is compromised,” Lt. Gen. Shaibu said. “I want to, however, reiterate that post-traumatic stress disorder is not a sign of weakness; it is a battle injury of the mind. We are committed to providing the necessary support system, early intervention and professional counselling to help our warriors transition successfully from trauma to triumph.

“Furthermore, the Nigerian Army has zero tolerance for drugs and substance abuse. It is a twin impediment to combat readiness and a threat to national security. It undermines unit cohesion and degrades operational effectiveness.

“I urge commanders at all levels to intensify the fight against this menace within our barracks and formations.”

The army chief commended the Department of Army Transformation and Innovation headed by Maj. Gen. Peter Okoye for working tirelessly to ensure that the mental health and general well-being of the entire army personnel is guaranteed.

The seminar was designed to align closely with the command Philosophy of the COAS to advance the transformation of the army into a more professional, adaptable, combat-ready and resilient force.

“This philosophy underscores the fact that the strength of the Nigerian Army lies not only in its equipment and capabilities but also in the resilience, discipline and mental readiness of its personnel,” Maj. Gen. Okoye explained.

The seminar is a rare opportunity for participants to deepen their understanding of issues relating to transformational leadership, post-traumatic stress disorder, and drug/substance abuse.

“Considering the calibre of resource persons assembled, I'm confident this seminar will achieve its intended objectives,” Lt. Gen. Shaibu added.

The seminar is a rare opportunity for participants to deepen their understanding of issues relating to transformational leadership, post-traumatic stress disorder, and drug/substance abuse.

The Nigerian Army continues to address mental health challenges and prevent substance abuse among its personnel. This move is part of ongoing efforts to ensure the army remains a professional, adaptable, combat-ready, and resilient force.

Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, the Chief of Army Staff, has been warning soldiers against engaging in drugs and substance abuse. The move aims to preserve troops' morale and combat readiness.

The seminar will provide valuable insights into the impact of drugs and substance abuse on the Nigerian Army's operations.

Maj. Gen. Peter Okoye, who heads the Department of Army Transformation and Innovation, commended the COAS for his efforts to ensure the mental health and general well-being of army personnel.

Nigerian Perspective

The Nigerian Army is taking steps to ensure its personnel remain focused on their duties without the negative influence of drugs and substance abuse. This effort is critical to maintaining the country's security and stability.