Convergence of digital technologies with military operations crucial for crime fighting – Army Chief
By CHRISTIANA LOT, Jos –
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, has emphasized the necessity of integrating digital technologies with military operations as an essential strategy in combating crime and criminality in Nigeria.
Speaking at a seminar on “Digital Transformation and Smart Soldier Concept,” hosted by the Army Headquarters Department of Army Transformation and Innovation at the 3 Division headquarters in Jos, Lagbaja asserted that in the near future, the Nigerian Army will equip its personnel with advanced technologies and tools, including smart devices and wearable technology, to improve situational awareness, communication, and decision-making on the battlefield.
The seminar, aptly titled “Leveraging Digital Transformation for Enhanced Operations Effectiveness in the Nigerian Army: Operation Safe HAVEN (OPSH) in Perspective,” primarily targeted junior and middle cadre personnel. Representing the Army Chief, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, commander of the 3 Division Jos and OPSH, highlighted that the concept of the “smart soldier” is central to the intended transformation of the Nigerian Army.
“It must, however, be noted that transformation is not merely adopting new technologies; rather, it is about fostering a culture of innovation and encouraging adaptability in a rapidly changing operational environment. The success of this transformation will then largely depend on our ability to seamlessly integrate new technologies with the human elements to ensure that soldiers remain agile, informed and prepared for any challenge,” Lagbaja stated.
He also pointed out the critical nature of the seminar in light of the challenges facing the nation, which necessitate focused leadership, operational effectiveness, and sound administration—key tenets of his command philosophy.
Lagbaja acknowledged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ongoing guidance and invaluable support for the Nigerian Army, reaffirming the commitment to enhancing troop welfare and improving the overall security situation in the country.
In attendance, Major General Adewale Adetoba, Deputy Director of the Department of Army Transformation and Innovation, noted the seminar’s timely theme, given the evolving nature of military operations in Nigeria.
He urged participants to leverage the insights gained from the seminar to expand their understanding of utilizing digital technologies in tackling issues such as Boko Haram insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, and other social vices plaguing the nation.