From Ibrahim Sidi Muh’d, Gusau
The Nigerian Army headquarters has through the department of Civil-Military Affairs warned the troops of 1 Brigade and Operation Fansan Yamma to strictly operate within the Nigerian laws and International Humanitarian Principles as it is committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism in its resolve to protect the nation and its people.
The warning was conveyed during an opening ceremony of a sensitization workshop on human rights and professional conduct held at Command’s Guest Inn Gusau Zamfara State capital by the Chief of Civil-military Relations, Maj Gen Musa Auwal Ntsu-Ndagi, saying, the troops should conduct operations in accordance with the Law so as not to expose the Nigerian army to accusations of human rights violations.
“The Nigerian army under the able leadership Of the Chief of Army Staff veteran General Wadi Shaibu, the esteemed order of the prestigious Nigerian Army Medal is fully committed to integrating human rights principles into every facets of our operations”, he noted.
General Musa Auwal further informed that, this is in recognition of the fact that respect for human rights is not Merely a legal obligation but also a strategic imperative that enhances troops’ credibility and legitimacy in the eyes of the citizenry.
He however noted that, it is important to caution that adhering to the law and numerary principles should not in any way make the troops docile in the conduct of their legitimate operations.
“Be decisive as ever in your operations against enemies of the state, the Nigerian army will back you as long as your actions are not outside the constitutionally obligated mandates beyond human rights principles, the Nigerian army is committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism in its resolve to provide and to protect our nation and its people Our operations in this regard demand not only courage and tactical prowess, but also unwavering discipline and adherence to ethical conduct.
“As you strive to achieve our constitutionally obligated mandates, which has exposed many of you to large quantities of ammunition, it is important to caution against the temptation to pilfer arms and ammunition. The sale of these items, and I mean arms and ammunition to the adversary either here in the northwest or elsewhere in the country, will only serve to exacerbate the security situation in our Fatherland.
Accordingly, General Musa added that the sensitization seminar covers the four thematic areas of responsible family living, abuse of drugs and psychoactive substances, peer fridge and sale of arms and amunitions and international humanitarian law and professional conducts of personnel.
Also speaking, the Commander 1 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, General M. Jimoh, said the workshop reinforces the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to professional excellence, ethical conduct, and strict adherence to human rights principles in the execution of military duties.
“In today’s complex internal security environment, where troops operate largely among civilian populations, the observance of human rights, compliance with the Rules of Engagement, and respect for the rule of law remain indispensable to mission success and the sustenance of public trust.
“I am pleased to note that troops of 1 Brigade Nigerian Army have continued to demonstrate a commendable level of compliance with extant operational directives and professional standards.
“This has largely been achieved through sustained in-theatre training initiatives, continuous sensitization, and the periodic review of Brigade Standing Orders and Standard Operating Procedures to align with evolving operational realities under Operation FANSAN YAMMA.
