Retired Major-General Charles Ofoche has emphasised the need for Nigerian Army recruits to develop strong character, resilience and an unwavering commitment to duty as the military confronts increasingly complex security challenges across the country.
Speaking at a seminar organised for members of the Army's 90 Regular Intake at the Depot Nigerian Army, Jaji, Kaduna State, Ofoche said the changing nature of security threats demands soldiers who are mentally prepared and professionally grounded.
The seminar, organised by the Army Headquarters Department of Army Transformation and Innovation, focused on the role of warrior ethos in fostering unity and operational readiness within military formations.
According to the retired officer, the military's responsibility extends beyond defending the nation's borders to safeguarding citizens and protecting national interests from both conventional and emerging threats.
He noted that persistent security concerns, including terrorism, insurgency and banditry, have placed greater demands on military personnel, making discipline, courage and determination indispensable qualities for soldiers.
Ofoche described warrior ethos as a set of values that shape a soldier's conduct, stressing that attributes such as loyalty, perseverance, selflessness and integrity are vital for success in military operations.
He said effective soldiers are produced through a combination of rigorous training, mentorship and practical experience, adding that professional competence must be complemented by mental strength and dedication to service.
Drawing lessons from military institutions in other countries, he observed that successful armed forces deliberately instill values that promote cohesion, professionalism and mission accomplishment.
The retired general also highlighted the Nigerian Army's SHIELD principles—Selfless Service, Honour, Integrity, Endurance, Loyalty and Discipline—as critical elements for building a capable and dependable force.
He urged the recruits to place national interest above personal considerations and remain committed to the military's core creed of accomplishing assigned missions while supporting fellow soldiers in difficult circumstances.
Earlier, the Commandant of Depot Nigerian Army, Brig.-Gen. Ahmed Ahmadu, said the training programme was designed to equip recruits with the mental and emotional strength required for modern military engagements.
Represented by the Chief Instructor, Training Branch, Col. Tajudeen Lamidi, Ahmadu noted that resilience and a strong fighting spirit are essential for soldiers operating in demanding and unpredictable environments.
He explained that the warrior ethos is anchored on dedication to mission success, persistence in adversity and commitment to comrades, qualities he described as indispensable on the battlefield.
The commandant said mental toughness enables personnel to remain composed under pressure, make sound operational decisions and maintain effectiveness despite challenging conditions.
He further encouraged the recruits to embrace teamwork and mutual trust, stressing that military success is often determined by collective effort rather than individual accomplishments.
Ahmadu reaffirmed the Army's commitment to values such as courage, loyalty, discipline, integrity and selfless service, urging the recruits to embody those principles throughout their careers.
He also commended the facilitators for contributing to the professional development of the trainees and encouraged them to share practical insights that would help prepare the recruits for future operational responsibilities.
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