The Nigerian Army has urged its personnel to uphold discipline, courage, integrity and ethical leadership to strengthen operational effectiveness and promote unity within military formations.

The army restated the need to address drug and substance abuse, as well as post-traumatic stress disorder, to safeguard the mental health and combat readiness of its personnel.

Peter Okoye, chief of army transformation and innovation, made the call on Tuesday at a sensitisation lecture on Warrior Ethos, delivered by his team at Depot Nigerian Army, Amasiri-Edda, temporary training area, Jaji Military Cantonment, Kaduna.

Mr Okoye said the seminar was designed to reinforce soldiers’ fighting spirit and promote their mental and physical well-being. He noted that the increasingly complex security environment required soldiers to develop mental toughness, emotional stability and sound judgement in addition to physical strength and combat skills.

He said the initiative aligned with the command philosophy of army chief Waidi Shaibu, which prioritised professional excellence, operational readiness, effective administration, strategic cooperation and exemplary leadership.

Mr Okoye reiterated that the army’s greatest assets were not limited to weapons and equipment but also included soldiers’ physical and mental well-being. He urged participants to apply the knowledge acquired during the seminar to improve discipline, strengthen unit cohesion and enhance operational performance.

Ahmed Ahmadu, commandant of the Depot Nigerian Army, Amasiri-Edda, described the seminar as an opportunity for personnel to reflect on the values and principles that defined professional military service.

Mr Ahmadu, who delivered the opening address, said a true soldier is defined not merely by wearing a uniform or carrying a weapon, but by demonstrating discipline, courage, loyalty, integrity, and selfless service, even in difficult circumstances.

He said the conduct of military personnel, both on and off the battlefield, shapes public perception of the army and influences the confidence Nigerians place in the institution.

The commandant stressed that Warrior Ethos required soldiers to respect human dignity, adhere to the rules of engagement, remain accountable and use force lawfully. He warned that indiscipline, misconduct and the pursuit of personal interests at the expense of collective responsibility could undermine military effectiveness and mission accomplishment.

Addressing the recruits undergoing training, Mr Ahmadu said their transition from training establishments to operational units would mark the beginning of a demanding journey in which their character would be tested alongside their physical and professional abilities.

He reminded them that wearing the military uniform was a solemn commitment to defend Nigeria, obey lawful orders and serve the country with honour.

The commandant urged the participants to engage actively in the seminar and apply its lessons to their military careers, noting that character remained essential to sustaining soldiers during difficult operational circumstances.

(NAN)