The Nigerian Army’s commitment to upholding human rights and professionalism was reinforced at a recent workshop hosted by Headquarters 1 Division Nigerian Army. The one-day sensitization workshop was held on Thursday, 6 February 2025, at the 1 Division Auditorium to enhance professionalism and adherence to human rights standards among troops and personnel within the Division’s Area of Responsibility (AOR).

Delivering the keynote address, Brigadier General BS Keji, representing the Chief of Civil-Military Affairs (Army) Major General Gold Chibuisi, highlighted the security challenges in Northwestern Nigeria, including herder-farmer conflicts, banditry, and kidnappings. He emphasized the need for troops to operate within the legal frameworks guiding military engagements by ensuring compliance with the laws of armed conflict, protection of civilian rights, and strict adherence to military policies and procedures.

Earlier, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division and Commander, Sector 1 Joint Task Force North-West Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Mayirenso Lander David Saraso, represented by the Chief of Staff 1 Division, Brigadier General David Nwakonobi, welcomed participants and reiterated the importance of such training. He stressed that Nigerian Army personnel must always uphold the highest standards of professionalism in all military operations. He further reassured that the Army remains committed to human rights protection and international best practices.

The workshop featured two key lectures; “Psychoactive Substance Abuse” Delivered by Mr Aliyu Mohammed Baba from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Kaduna State Command which highlighted the risks associated with psychoactive substance abuse and its impact on military personnel. The second lecture on “Human Rights and Professional Conduct of Nigerian Army Personnel in all Situations” was presented by Capt JR Mamza and Lt ID Obarien both from Army Headquarters Department of Civil-Military Affairs. The lecture also emphasized the importance of upholding human rights and professional conduct in all military operations.

The workshop also included keynote lectures, presentations of souvenirs, and group photographs. The Nigerian Army’s efforts to promote human rights and professionalism are in line with international best practices and Nigeria’s obligations under various human rights treaties.

MUSA ADAMS YAHAYA
Lieutenant Colonel
Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations 1 Division Nigerian Army.
7 February 2025