The Nigerian Senate has affirmed its unwavering support for the Nigerian Army (NA) as they grapple with the multifaceted security challenges facing the nation. This commitment was solidified on October 25, 2023, during a visit to the Army Headquarters in Abuja by the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Army, Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’Adua, and other committee members.
Senator Yar’Adua commended the Nigerian Army for their steadfast dedication to fulfilling their constitutional responsibilities. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between the legislative branch and the military to exercise effective legislative oversight and enact reforms that will bolster the NA’s capacity to safeguard Nigeria’s territorial integrity and maintain national security.
After receiving comprehensive briefings on the operational and administrative aspects of the Nigerian Army, the lawmakers acknowledged the daunting security challenges confronting the institution. They pledged to provide the necessary support to ensure the well-being of troops, recognizing that this support is vital to boosting the morale and performance of the military.
Senator Yar’Adua presented a draft legislative agenda to Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff. This agenda prioritizes the acquisition of essential resources to enhance the NA’s operational efficiency.
In response, the Chief of Army Staff expressed his gratitude to the committee for their pivotal role in facilitating the effective functioning of the Nigerian Army. He emphasized the significance of legislative oversight in guiding the military’s execution of its constitutional duties. General Lagbaja also highlighted the NA’s commitment to representing the diverse constituencies of Nigeria and its openness to feedback from the Senate, which has contributed to refining ongoing military operations.
General Lagbaja extended his appreciation to the lawmakers for their continued support since the inception of the National Assembly.
A key moment during the visit was the presentation of the proposed legislative agenda to the Chief of Army Staff by Senator Yar’Adua, underscoring the collaborative efforts to address security challenges in Nigeria.