By Bashir Adisa
Kaduna (Nigeria) — Governor Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna State, northwest Nigeria, has charged officers and men of the Nigerian Army on the need to uphold highest standard of conduct, respect for rule of law and human rights in the discharge of their service to the nation.
El-Rufai stated this at the pass-out graduation ceremony of the Junior Course 80/2015, of the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, AFCSC, Jaji, Kaduna.
He urged the officers to brace up likely challenges with courage, conviction and in the most professional manner.
Represented by his Deputy, Arch. Barnabas Bala Bantex, Governor El-Rufai said the officers must leave up to expectation as much is expected from them by their superiors, respective military units, organizations and countries.
According to him, “As the Federal Government continues to vigorously pursue the change agenda, you should take note that much more will be demanded of the military. Our actions particularly during the ongoing counter insurgency operations is crucial and must be guided by the Armed Forces act, standing operating procedures or rules of engagement as the case maybe.
“Our inactions on the other hand would really be dependent on sense of judgment, appreciation and decision making skills.
“It is therefore pertinent that you always conduct yourself in a manner befitting of an officer and a gentleman when discharging your duties in line with global best practices.
“You must uphold the highest standards of conduct vis-a-vis character, integrity, excellence, service and teamwork as well as respecting rule of law and human rights in your service to the nation.
“You will be held to these standards not just as ambassadors of the Armed Forces but also as products of this prestigious institution of professional military education,” he said.
Earlier, in his welcome address, AFCSC Commandant, AVM Suleiman Abubakar Dambo said the college has laid a solid professionalism foundation for the officers which they must build on through self development efforts and repositioning for the tasks ahead especially in defeating the insurgency in the North East.
“The college has equipped you how to cope with most challenges you are likely going to face in the field. As you go back to the field, you would be required to combine practical exigencies with the staff and leadership skills that you have been taught,” he said.
A total of 175 officers which comprises of 89 Nigerian Army, 45 (Navy), 26 (Air Force), 11 (Non-military) and 4 allied officers from Republic of Gambia, Ghana, Niger and Zambia were graduated.
