From Ndubuisi Orji, Abuja
The Nigerian Army has advised officers and soldiers to uphold professionalism and ethical conduct in dealing with civilians during the 2023 general elections.
The Commandant, Army War College Nigeria (AWCN), Maj.-Gen. Bamidele Alabi, made the call at the opening of a sensitisation workshop organised by Army Headquarters Garrison on Wednesday in Abuja.
The workshop was tagged `Upholding the Traditional Ethics of the Nigerian Army and Promoting Professionalism and Social Responsibility of the Nigerian Soldiers’.
“We are all aware that the attention of the international community will focus on our dear country Nigeria during the elections next year, and particular attention is always paid to the roles we play during the elections.
“So far, the Armed Forces of Nigeria, particularly the army which is most visible during such elections has lived above board.
“And in order to maintain and even improve on this record, all hands must be on deck to ensure that we remain apolitical and discharge our roles professionally during the elections.
“In this regards, the COAS has already signed the Code of Conduct and Rules of Engagement for Nigerian Army personnel during Operation Safe Conduct 2023 which has been distributed to all formations and units. This shows the importance the COAS appends to our conduct during the forthcoming elections.”
Alabi said the workshop was designed to educate troops on how to conduct themselves professionally during international and internal operations.
He added that troops were also been sensitised on the sanctity of both local and humanitarian laws, social media policies and imperatives of protecting civilians during all operations.
The commandant also said that the workshop would focus on the social responsibilities of Army personnel at all times.