The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, has announced that the Nigerian Army is set to review its agricultural policy in the coming days, as part of efforts to support government initiatives aimed at addressing the country’s food security challenges.
Lt. Gen. Lagbaja made this disclosure on Tuesday during the opening ceremony of the week-long Chief of Army Staff combined second and third quarters conference 2024, held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
Lt. Gen. Lagbaja highlighted the recent economic-driven protests in the country as a reminder that the Army’s role extends beyond physical security.
“As an Armed Force, we must not only focus on physical security and the defense of the nation but also recognize that food and social security issues can escalate into physical security challenges,” he stated.
In response to the ongoing food crisis, the COAS revealed plans to strengthen the Army’s contribution to food security by enhancing its agricultural policy.
“The Nigerian Army Farms and Ranches Limited will be repositioned to significantly boost crop production, allowing the Army to release grains into the market at highly subsidized rates in support of government efforts,” Lt. Gen. Lagbaja said.
He further disclosed that the Army Headquarters is reviewing proposals for partnerships with Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) of government, as well as reputable private organizations, to explore collaborative approaches to resolving Nigeria’s food crisis.
The COAS also addressed the Army’s current efforts in providing security for farmers in critical agricultural zones across the North East, North West, and North Central regions.
“This is crucial to prevent the devastating impact that any disruption in food production in these regions could have on the nation’s food supply chain,” he noted.
In his remarks, Lt. Gen. Lagbaja responded to recent calls for undemocratic military intervention, which arose during the protests, particularly from younger Nigerians.
“As Chief of Army Staff, my simple response to the call is, ‘Thanks, but no thanks!’ The Nigerian Army will not allow itself to be used to undemocratically propel any interests to power,” he declared, emphasizing the Army’s commitment to upholding democracy and its hard-earned reputation over the past 25 years.
The COAS also provided updates on the Army’s ongoing operations across various theaters of conflict, highlighting significant progress in degrading the capabilities of terrorists and other criminal elements.
“Our concerted efforts have been instrumental in reducing militancy, pipeline vandalism, crude oil theft, and illegal oil refining in the Niger Delta region,” Lt. Gen. Lagbaja said.
He also acknowledged the sacrifices made by Nigerian soldiers, including those who have lost their lives or been wounded in the line of duty.
Lt. Gen. Lagbaja took the opportunity to express his gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his unwavering support and strategic guidance, as well as to Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, for his consistent support in combating criminal activities within the state.
Governor Umo Eno, the special guest of honor at the event, commended the COAS for his leadership and for maintaining the Army’s apolitical stance.
“The establishment of the Headquarters of 2 Brigade in Akwa Ibom has contributed significantly to the peace and security we enjoy in the state,” Governor Eno remarked.
The opening ceremony also featured the presentation of cheques to three beneficiaries under the Army’s Group Life Assurance scheme, further demonstrating the Army’s commitment to the welfare of its personnel and their families.
