Jaji: The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has emphasized the crucial roles that Warrant Officers and Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (SNCOs) play in command and leadership within the Nigerian Armed Forces. Oluyede conveyed this message during the graduation ceremony of the Warrant Officers Academy Course 45/2025 at the Jaji Military Cantonment.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Army Chief was represented by the Commander, Infantry Corps, Maj.-Gen. Usman Yusuf. The COAS congratulated the course graduates on successfully completing a demanding 22-week training program. He highlighted that the Warrant Officers' Academy is instrumental in enhancing the capacities of Warrant Officers and SNCOs to bridge the gap between commissioned officers and the enlisted cadre.
Oluyede noted that the graduates have acquired vital skills to address knowledge and leadership gaps between officers and junior ranks, which will enable them to fulfill their responsibilities more effectively. He stated that the academy's training program focuses on resolving junior leadership challenges, which are essential for effective decision making in military units and formations.
The Chief of Army Staff praised the commandant and instructors of the academy for their dedication to the successful execution of the course. He urged the graduates to utilize their knowledge and skills to enhance their leadership and managerial capabilities for the benefit of the Nigerian Army and the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
Oluyede emphasized the importance of training in mentorship, leadership, man-management, regimentation, and other field exercises, which are expected to significantly enhance the graduates' performance when they return to their units. He also expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his support and commended the Chief of Training (Army) for fostering joint training initiatives among junior-level leaders of the Nigerian Army Forces.
NAN reports that the graduates included personnel from the Navy, Nigerian Air Force, and allied students from the Republic of Liberia, showcasing inter-service collaboration and diplomatic ties with sister countries. Earlier, Brig.-Gen. Aminu Umar, Commandant of the academy, stated that the graduation marked the successful conclusion of rigorous training for 81 students, including personnel.
Umar mentioned that the course featured intense field training and academic activities aimed at enhancing the capacities of warrant officers and SNCOs. The training was designed to equip the graduates with the skills needed to efficiently interpret and communicate command decisions, bridging the gap between commissioned officers and junior non-commissioned officers.
He urged the graduates to be courageous, honest, disciplined, and loyal leaders, highlighting the importance of professionalism in their duties. Umar also encouraged them to build on the knowledge gained through self-development. The commandant expressed gratitude to Oluyede and thanked the Commanders and Commandants of the Nigerian Army Units and Schools for their support, which enabled the academy to achieve its training objectives. He remarked that the graduation marked another milestone in the academy's history, contributing to the ongoing transformation efforts of the Nigerian Army.