It has become customary for retiring security personnel to shower themselves with accolades and praise for their achievements. Just like in the Nigerian Police Force, there has been a shift in power within the military as the former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Farouk Yahaya, officially hands over the army flag to the new COAS, Major General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja on June 23, 2023.
During his brief speech, Yahaya claimed that he was able to tackle the Boko Haram insurgency more effectively than his predecessors. According to him, the insurgency was at its peak when he assumed office in 2021, but he believes he is leaving it in a better state than he found it.
However, we must question the validity of this statement. While there may not be as much news coverage on Boko Haram, other groups such as the popular “unknown gunmen” continue to wreak havoc in different states of Nigeria, instilling fear in the country. Several tragic incidents, including the Kaduna train attack and the St. Louis Catholic Church Owo attack in Info State, resulting in the loss of over 41 lives and numerous casualties, indicate that our security system in Nigeria is far from satisfactory.
While we should not undermine the efforts of the retiring COAS, as safeguarding a nation is no easy task, we cannot wholeheartedly agree that his administration was a resounding success.
Yahaya was appointed army chief by former President Muhammadu Buhari on May 27, 2021, following the tragic death of Lieutenant General Ibrahim Attahiru, who died in an air crash alongside 10 other army officers and personnel on May 21.
Prior to his appointment as army chief, Yahaya served as the Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai, the counter-insurgency operation in the Northeast.
Speaking at the handover ceremony in Abuja, Yahaya, who led the Nigerian army for two years, claimed that he is leaving the military in a better state than he found it. He urged the army to maintain the progress made in addressing various security threats, including terrorists, bandits, and crude oil thieves.
The outgoing COAS cautioned them against being distracted by unpatriotic elements, emphasizing the importance of remaining apolitical and professional.
On the other hand, the new Chief of Army Staff, Major General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, praised the prudent management of resources and military hardware procurement during his predecessor’s tenure. He pledged to build upon the legacy left behind, urging those leaving the service not to deprive the Nigerian Army of their invaluable experiences whenever the need arises.
The new COAS vowed to lead an army characterized by discipline and professionalism. The event was attended by senior military officers and heads of various army departments.
Undoubtedly, the new COAS has a daunting task ahead of him to transform Nigeria into a safe country with minimal security issues. However, Nigerians, at this point, are willing to give anyone the benefit of the doubt. How would you rate the performance of the retiring COAS?
