The commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Edo State, Dr. Mitchell Ofoyeju, has emphasised that substance use and addiction pose significant risks not just to an individual soldier but also to the operational readiness and effectiveness of the army.

The commander of narcotics made the remark at a strategic seminar, which aimed at enhancing operational effectiveness within the Nigerian Army, held at the Nigerian Army School of Supply and Transport, Benin City. The session focused on the crucial topic “Lessons Learned Process/Feedback Mechanism,” with a special emphasis on the impact of drug and substance abuse.

Addressing a packed audience of military personnel, Dr. Ofoyejuh elaborated on how drug abuse can impair judgement, decrease decision-making capabilities, and increase vulnerability to mental health issues among soldiers and called for immediate attention to preventive measures.

Dr. Ofoyeju underscored the importance of creating a culture of awareness and support, where soldiers feel comfortable seeking help. “Our focus must shift towards prevention, education, and rehabilitation,” he remarked, encouraging participants to see drug abuse as a threat to national security.

The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, represented by the commandant, Nigeria Army School of Supply and Transport, Benin City, Major Gen. A.O. Adegbite, commended the NDLEA’s proactive approach, stating, “This partnership is essential not only for the health of our soldiers but for the integrity and effectiveness of our operations.”

Participants engaged in robust discussions following the lecture, sharing experiences and insights on the challenges. The seminar concluded with a call to action, encouraging all soldiers to take personal responsibility and support their peers in creating an army that is both healthy and prepared to face the challenges ahead.

The sensitisation seminar is part of ongoing efforts by the Nigerian Army to ensure a robust feedback mechanism for addressing lessons learned from both operational experiences and societal challenges, reinforcing their commitment to the well-being of troops and the success of national security objectives.

The Army Headquarters Department of Army Transformation and Innovation hosted the strategic seminar aimed at enhancing operational effectiveness within the Nigerian Army.