In continuation of its efforts in sensitising troops, the Army Headquarters Department of Civil-Military Affairs has reiterated the importance of human rights and professional conduct in military operations, as it held a one-day sensitization workshop for troops of Headquarters Sector 1 Joint Task Force (NE) OPERATION HADIN KAI in Maiduguri.
The workshop, held at the Theatre Officers’ Mess, Maimalari Cantonment, Maiduguri, Borno State, aimed to educate troops on the constitutional necessity of protecting and promoting human rights of law-abiding citizens.
In his opening remarks, the Chief of Civil-Military Affairs, Maj Gen Musa A Etsu-Ndagi, emphasised that “the modern battlefield is not only physical but also perceptual”, stressing that every action or inaction of a soldier can impact the Nigerian Army’s operational legitimacy, national security, and diplomatic relations.
The workshop featured lectures on Children in Armed Conflict, Psychoactive Substance Abuse, Mental Health and Family Cohesion, and Human Rights and Professional Conduct. Participants engaged in an interactive session, contributing valuable insights and asking questions.
The Chief of Civil-Military Affairs noted that respect for human rights enhances legitimacy, builds public trust, and strengthens civil-military relations, contrary to the notion that it hinders operational effectiveness.
The event concluded with the presentation of souvenirs to resource persons and a group photograph.
Ojo ADENEGAN
Major
Acting Director, Information Management
Army Headquarters Department of Civil-Military Affairs, Abuja
