- Tasks officers on mastery of basic military skills amid evolving security challenges
The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Armoured Division Nigerian Army and Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH), Major General Abdusalam Abubakar has underscored the pivotal role of young officers in shaping the future of the Nigerian Army.
Addressing over 500 young officers undergoing conversion exercise at Headquarters 3 Armoured Division Maxwell Khobe Cantonment in Jos, Plateau State Capital on Monday, General Abubakar emphasized the necessity for young officers to possess mastery of basic military skills, physical fitness, and mental preparedness to effectively tackle the evolving security challenges confronting the nation.
He stressed the importance of the conversion exercise in the career progression of Nigerian Army Officers, particularly those under the Short Service Commission and Direct Short Service Commission, who aspire to serve beyond a specified service year as outlined in the Harmonised Terms and Conditions of service.
Highlighting the significance of the conversion exercise, Abubakar explained that it provides candidates with the opportunity to transition to Regular Combatant and Direct Regular Commissions within the Nigerian Army. He outlined that candidates will undergo various physical, laboratory, and radiological examinations to assess their fitness in alignment with the requirements of the Nigerian Army.
Expressing gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, for entrusting 3 Division with hosting the event, Abubakar voiced confidence in the dedication and capabilities of the young officers undergoing the conversion process. He urged them to approach the opportunity with diligence and commitment, recognizing their critical role in safeguarding the nation’s security interests.
Congratulating the candidates on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff, the GOC charged them to maintain the highest standard of regimentation, discipline, and carriage throughout the exercise. He sternly warned against any form of cheating to distort the process, advising the candidates to resist temptation during physical and skill-at-arms tests.
Abubakar assured that the Nigerian Army leadership had adequately prepared the candidates for the exercise through cadre organized to tutor them on the required knowledge. He urged the candidates to leverage the knowledge and experience acquired during the cadre. The exercise is slated to last for two weeks.
 3 Armoured Division Nigerian Army and Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH), Major General Abdusalam Abubakar has underscored the pivotal role of young officers in shaping the future of the Nigerian Army.){kind=link}