ARMY CHIEF WARNS SOLDIERS AGAINST DRUG ABUSE, ENCOURAGES MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has warned soldiers against drug abuse and encouraged personnel facing psychological challenges to seek professional help.

Shaibu said mental resilience, emotional stability and sound judgment were essential to effective military operations, especially as troops confront Nigeria’s complex security challenges.

He spoke on Tuesday at a sensitisation seminar at the Nigerian Army School of Infantry in Jaji, Kaduna State. The programme focused on warrior ethos, post-traumatic stress disorder management and drug and substance abuse.

Represented by the Commander of the Infantry Corps, Maj.-Gen. Godwin Mutkut, the army chief stressed that soldiers need more than physical strength and combat skills to carry out their duties effectively.

He described warrior ethos as the foundation of military service, built on courage, discipline, loyalty, commitment to completing missions and the determination never to abandon fellow soldiers.

Shaibu also acknowledged the emotional pressures that come with military service. He noted that prolonged combat, the loss of colleagues, traumatic experiences and separation from family could affect soldiers’ psychological well-being.

His message encouraged personnel to take their mental health seriously and seek professional support when needed, while maintaining the discipline required for military service.