Digital technology crucial tool in tackling insecurity – COAS

Lt.-Gen. Toareed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), has described digital technology as crucial tool in tackling emerging security threats in Nigeria.

Lagbaja said this on Thursday at a Seminar, organised for officers and men of 3 Division, Nigerian Army, Rukuba, near Jos.

It was reported that the theme of the seminar titled ”Digital Transformation and Smart Soldier Concept”.

The COAS was represented by the Maj.-Gen. Abdusalam Abubakar, the General Officer Commanding 3 division and Commander Operation Safe Haven (OPSH).

Lagbaja said that the seminar was in line with the current drive of the Nigerian Army to leverage advanced technologies to modernise military operations.

He added that it would also improve decision-making process among troops and ensure adaptability toward tackling evolving multi-dimensional security challenges.

”This seminar could not have come at a better time than when the battlefield is rapidly evolving and driven by technological changes.

”The convergence of digital technologies with military operation is not just an option but an imperative.

”The Nigerian army will soon empower personnel with advanced technologies and equipment such as smart devices, wearable technology and other tools to enhance situational awareness, communication and decision-making in the battlefield.

”This seminar is thus critical, considering the challenges bedeviling our nation which requires focused leadership, operational effectiveness and sound administration which are the pillars of my command philosophy,” he said.

The COAS also explained that the concept of a “smart soldier” is key towards its desire to transform the Nigerian Army.

”This entails equipping soldiers with the tools, knowledge and capabilities that allow them to operate effectively in a digitised environment.

”Thus, the smart soldier embodies military efficiency from enhanced situational awareness to real-time information sharing and advanced communication systems.

”Transformation is not merely adopting new technologies but fostering the culture of innovation and encouraging adaptability in a rapidly changing operating environment.

”This transformation is largely dependent on troops’ ability to integrate new technologies with the human elements, ensure soldiers remain agile, informed and prepared for any challenge,” he added.

Earlier, Maj.-Gen. Zakari Ibrahim, the Chief of Transformation and Innovation of the Nigerian Army, said that the seminar was designed to sensitise personnel on the integration of digital technology into military operations.

Represented by his Deputy, Maj.-Gen. Adewale Adetoba, Ibrahim said that the activity aimed at keeping faith with global practices.

”This exercise will improve the capacity of our troops to make informed decision and manage resources toward ensuring operational effectiveness

”With the evolving nature of our operations, the use of technology, particularly data analysis is key,” he said.