Nigerian army speaks amid Lagbaja’s absence

The Nigerian Army (NA) has reaffirmed that its operational and administrative functions are running seamlessly despite the official leave of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja.

This comes amid concerns over a possible leadership gap due to the COAS’s absence and the simultaneous overseas engagements of Nigeria’s President and Vice President.

In a statement issued on Saturday by the Nigerian Army’s spokesperson, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, the Army dismissed any speculation of a leadership vacuum. He emphasized that the Army is a well-structured institution with established procedures to ensure continuity in leadership and operations.

“Recently, the Nigerian Army has achieved significant milestones, demonstrating its commitment to routine activities and adherence to established protocols,” Nwachukwu said.

Highlighting some of these achievements, the statement mentioned the successful conduct of the Captain-Major Practical Promotion Examination in Akure, underscoring the Army’s dedication to the professional growth and advancement of its officers.

Additionally, the Nigerian Army has made headway in promoting its warrant officers, with the Master Warrant Officer to Army Warrant Officer Promotion Exercise currently underway in Jos. This follows the successful completion of the Warrant Officer to Master Warrant Officer (WO-MWO) promotion exercise in Kaduna. The results of these examinations are expected to be released soon, pending reconciliation between the Army’s Corps and the Department of Personnel Management at Army Headquarters.

“These accomplishments attest to the Nigerian Army’s commitment to its duties, even in the COAS’s absence,” Nwachukwu added.

During the COAS’s leave, Major General Abdulsalami Bagudu Ibrahim, the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), is effectively overseeing the Army’s affairs, ensuring continuity and stability within the institution.

The Nigerian Army reassured the public of its preparedness and capacity to address any security challenges and safeguard Nigeria’s territorial integrity. The Army Headquarters encouraged Nigerians to remain confident in the NA’s ability to maintain security and operational readiness, stating that all land-related training, operational, and administrative activities are on track.

“We appreciate the concern shown by well-meaning Nigerians for Lt. Gen. Lagbaja, and we continue to receive their prayers for him,” Nwachukwu said, urging the public and the international community to remain assured that the Army is fully committed to its responsibilities.

Thediscovererng.com reports that this development comes as both President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima are currently out of the country, sparking heightened public interest in the stability of key institutions like the military. However, the Nigerian Army has reiterated its dedication to ensuring security and operational continuity despite the absence of top government officials.