The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has urged Nigerian Army Imams to adopt proactive measures in addressing moral and spiritual challenges affecting troops, particularly amid ongoing counter-insurgency operations across the country.
In a statement, Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations 7 Division Nigerian Army Lieut. Col. Haruna Mohammed Sani said the COAS gave the charge on Monday, 20 October 2025, in Damaturu, Yobe State, while declaring open the Directorate of Islamic Affairs (DOIA) Training Week 2025 and Annual Conference. He was represented by the Chief of Staff, Sector 2, Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, Brigadier General Ahmed Getso.
General Oluyede described the training as a strategic investment in the moral and spiritual development of the Nigerian Army, aimed at equipping its Imams with the capacity to provide effective guidance and support to troops deployed in various theatres of operation.
The Training Week, themed “Soldiers’ First Concept: The Role of Nigerian Army Imams in Inculcating Discipline, Courage, and Producing Soldiers Free from Drugs and Substance Abuse for a Combat-Ready Force,” focuses on enhancing discipline, moral strength, and emotional stability among personnel exposed to operational stress.
In a goodwill message, the Executive Governor of Yobe State, Hon. Dr. Mai Mala Buni, represented by his Deputy, Hon. Idi Gubana, commended the Directorate of Islamic Affairs for its vital role in curbing drug abuse and promoting ethical conduct among soldiers. “The timely spiritual interventions of the Army Imams have contributed greatly to discipline and professionalism among troops,” he said.
Earlier, the Director of Islamic Affairs, Brigadier General Usman Musa, said the 2025 Training Week serves as a platform to strengthen the Directorate’s efforts in promoting authentic Islamic teachings and spiritual resilience among soldiers.
He reaffirmed that the Directorate’s programmes align with the COAS Command Philosophy and global best practices, emphasizing the “Soldiers’ First” concept as the cornerstone of the Nigerian Army’s strength and mission success.
Brigadier General Musa also appreciated the COAS for his continued support, particularly the approval for the relocation of the Directorate’s headquarters and school to Muhammadu Buhari Cantonment, Abuja.
The event drew participants from across Army formations and provided an opportunity for robust discussions on the moral and spiritual well-being of soldiers engaged in national defence.
