A Call for Better Support and Welfare for Troops and Their Families

 

A security expert, Retired Air Commodore Darlington Abdullahi has reiterated the need for collaboration among all stakeholders in fight against terrorism and banditry in Nigeria.

Air Commodore Abdullahi stated this while speaking on the program, Nigeria and Politics on 3rd EYE TV AFRICA in Abuja.

He spoke against the backdrop of the recent attack by Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists on a military camp in Borno State which claimed the lives of 22 soldiers, including a commanding officer.

According to him, the grief felt by the nation is compounded by the emotional toll on families left behind, underscoring the need for better support systems for both current and fallen troops.

With support from citizenry, he said Nigeria can work toward a more secure and prosperous future, where the sacrifices of the brave men and women of the Armed Forces are never forgotten.

“ As the country mourns the fallen heroes, programs to support widows should be strengthened and orphans ensured proper education in order to guarantee that they are not left to fend for themselves in their darkest hours,” Air Commodore Abdullahi said.

The government has made efforts in this direction, with various support systems in place for the families of the deceased, including financial allowances and educational support.

He said however that much more still needs to be done to ensure that these families are not just surviving but thriving, receiving adequate care that reflects the sacrifices made by their loved ones in the service of the nation.

“For those still in active service, improving living conditions is vital. The Nigerian military must be equipped not only with the right weapons and training but also with stable housing and infrastructure that ensure they are well-rested, well-nourished, and prepared for service.

Barracks and living facilities should be of high standard, providing troops with a sense of comfort and belonging,” he added.

Abdullahi further highlighted that, providing these support systems {quality schools, allowances, and other infrastructure} will further motivate soldiers and enhance their sense of duty and patriotism.

He also pointed out that the Forces Resettlement Centre plays a critical role in facilitating a smooth transition for soldiers leaving active service.

According to him, this includes pre-retirement training, as well as counselling which equips soldiers with practical skills that are not only useful in their new lives but can also lead to career opportunities in various sectors, help reduce the risk of mental health issues, unemployment, and social isolation.

In light of the recent attacks on Nigerian soldiers and the growing insurgent threat across the region, he noted that cooperation between neighboring nations is essential to curbing terrorism and insurgency.

“The situation in neighboring Mali and Burkina Faso, where terrorist groups are exploiting porous borders, with northern Nigeria sharing same boundary with Niger, is of growing concern as insurgents continue to regroup and rearm across borders,” he said.

In addressing these challenges, he said the focus should be on local solutions rather than relying on external support.

“Strengthening local defense industries, such as the Defense Industry Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), will help Nigeria become self-sufficient in weapon production, which is key to sustaining military operations without relying heavily on foreign arms.

These locally produced weapons can better serve the needs of the Nigerian military, as they are tailored to the country’s unique challenges,” he stressed.

Air Commodore Abdullahi observed that technological advancements, particularly in surveillance and drone capabilities, have become increasingly important in modern warfare.

“The proliferation of small arms and light weapons in Nigeria, exacerbated by porous borders and terrorist activity, requires a comprehensive approach that includes advanced surveillance systems. Drones, air surveillance, and remote technologies have proven to be force multipliers in the fight against insurgency and terrorism,” he noted.

As demonstrated by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, unmanned aerial systems (UAS) have become indispensable for intelligence gathering and tactical operations. Nigeria must invest in these technologies to enhance its military’s ability to track insurgents, gather intelligence, and carry out targeted strikes with greater precision.

He also pointed out that a robust and responsive budget system is crucial for ensuring that the military has the necessary tools to combat threats and maintain peace.

In particular, he said the Navy’s need for modern boats to safeguard the nation’s resources, especially in the Niger Delta, is a key area requiring urgent attention, noting that expediting budget approval and supporting the Armed Forces with sufficient funds will better equip them to carry out critical operations and safeguard the nation’s borders and resources.

He observed that the Armed Forces Remembrance Day is not just about honoring those who have made the ultimate sacrifice but also about ensuring that those who remain in service are adequately supported.

In summary, he said better budgeting, improved salaries, welfare for troops and their families, and greater attention to the needs of retired personnel are essential for building a resilient and motivated military, adding that by taking these steps, Nigeria will not only pay tribute to its fallen heroes but also strengthen its military and safeguard its future.