COAS Shaibu Urges Nigerian Army to Combat Substance Abuse

On Wednesday, during a seminar titled “Transformational Leadership, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder And Drug/Substance Abuse” at the 4 Special Forces Command in Doma, Nasarawa State, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), cautioned Nigerian Army personnel against drug and substance abuse. He emphasized that such behaviors could impair their operational effectiveness.

The seminar, represented by Maj-Gen. John Lar, aimed to build trust among soldiers, enhance their adaptability, and address mental health challenges. Shaibu highlighted the importance of mental health, stating that post-traumatic stress disorder is a legitimate battle injury and not a sign of weakness.

He reiterated the Nigerian Army's zero tolerance for substance abuse, calling it a threat to national security and operational readiness. The seminar is part of ongoing efforts to instill appropriate leadership values among junior and middle cadre officers.

Maj-Gen. Peter Okoye, head of the Department of Army Transformation and Innovation, underscored the seminar's significance in meeting the psychological demands of modern military operations.