The Nigerian Army says it is highly committed to integrating human rights principles into every facet of its operations aimed at upholding the highest standards of professionalism in protecting the country.
The Chief of Civil-Military Relations, Maj. Gen. Musa Ntsu-Ndagi, stated this at a sensitisation workshop on human rights and professional conduct for the troops of 1 Brigade Gusau and joint Task Force, Operation Fansan Yamma (OPFY), held in Gusau on Tuesday.
Supreme news reports that the workshop was organised by the Nigerian Army Headquarters, Department of Civil-Military Affairs.
The sensitisation seminar would cover four thematic areas of responsible family living, abuse of drugs and psychoactive substances, sale of arms and ammunition, international humanitarian law and professional conducts of personnel, among others.
Ntsu-Ndagi said the Nigerian army under the leadership Of the Chief of Army Staff Gen. Wadi Shaibu was fully committed to integrating human rights principles into every facets of its operations.
He said, “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 our credibility and legitimacy in the eyes of the citizenry.
“I want to appreciate our gallant troops for their resilience and dogged determination to conquer the adversary in this complex and challenging battle against terrorism and banditry.
“As professional soldiers we are duty bound to conduct our operations in accordance with the national laws and international humanitarian principles.
“As soldiers, we are required to conduct operations in accordance with the law so as not to expose the Nigerian army to accusations of human rights violations.
“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.”
According to him, 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”, he further said.
Ntsu-Ndagi said that the Nigerian army operations demanded not only courage and tactical prowess, but also unwavering discipline and adherence to ethical conduct.
“It is also important to note that the indulgence of some personnel in the abuse of drugs and psychoactive substances is not lost on the authorities of the Nigerian Army.
“These service has zero tolerance for this indulgence and will likewise be ruthless in dealing with erring personnel.
“Equally worth noting is the fact that the Department of Civil Military affairs is inundated with complaints of spouse and child abandonment, heightening the need to encourage you not to abandon your spouses and children.
“We know that the challenges of your job can at times keep you far from your spouses and all of that, but just be committed and keep in touch as much as you can. Send upkeep to your spouses to take care of your family’s welfare,” he explained.
Earlier, the Commander, 1 Brigade of the Nigerian Army Gusau, Brig.-Gen. Mustapha Jimoh, described the workshop as a timely and welcome development.
“I am particularly delighted to receive the distinguished representatives of Army Headquarters, eminent resource persons, senior officers, officers, and soldiers for this important occasion.
“The troops of 1 Brigade Nigerian Army have continued to demonstrate a commendable level of compliance with extant operational directives and professional standards.
“This workshop provides a valuable platform to further deepen our understanding of applicable laws, ethical obligations, and the professional conduct expected of every officer and soldier in both peace and conflict situations,” he explained.
He commended the Army Headquarters, Department of Civil–Military Affairs for organising the important sensitisation programme.
“To the participants, I urge you to approach this workshop with utmost seriousness, discipline, and an open mind.
“Let me assure the organisers, facilitators and participants of the full support and cooperation of Headquarters, 1 Brigade Nigerian Army, towards the successful conduct of this workshop,” Jimoh added