The Chief of Civil-Military Affairs, Nigerian Army Headquarters, Major General Gold Chibuisi, has called on officers and soldiers to strictly adhere to the laws of armed conflict, uphold human rights, and conduct themselves professionally, particularly during internal security operations across the country.
He emphasized that professionalism and discipline are essential in winning the trust and support of civilians in crisis-prone areas.
Major General Chibuisi made this appeal during a one-day sensitization workshop on Human Rights and Professional Conduct organized for troops of the 16 Brigade of the Nigerian Army.
The event, held in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, aimed to strengthen the military’s understanding of ethical conduct, especially in regions experiencing complex security threats.
Speaking directly to the troops, the Chief of Civil-Military Affairs highlighted the unique security challenges in the South-South geopolitical zone—where the 16 Brigade operates—which include crude oil theft, cultism, kidnapping, and other forms of violent crimes.
According to him, these threats not only endanger the local population but also have a serious impact on Nigeria’s economy and national security.
He noted that the government has had to initiate multiple internal security operations to restore law and order in the region, and as such, it is imperative that troops strictly adhere to operational guidelines.
“Let the rules of engagement and the laws regulating military operations guide your conduct at all times,” Chibuisi urged. “Respect for human rights is not optional—it is a duty and a key part of our professional military ethics.”
Also addressing the gathering, the Commander of the 16 Brigade, Brigadier General Oluremi Obolo, charged troops under his command to avoid engaging in drug abuse and other acts capable of tarnishing the image of the Nigerian Army.
He emphasized that soldiers must cultivate a strong, respectful relationship with the civilian populace to ensure effective military-civilian cooperation in peace enforcement and community protection.
Reinforcing this message, Dr. Chia Francis, the Deputy Commander of Narcotics at the Bayelsa State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), delivered a lecture on the Abuse of Psychoactive Substances.
He cited a 2018 report by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), which revealed that approximately 14 million Nigerians engage in drug abuse.
Dr. Francis warned that drug use among military personnel could impair judgment, reduce combat efficiency, and damage public trust.
Adding a unique touch to the workshop, popular Nollywood actor Mr. Osita Iheme—also known as “Pawpaw”—participated as a guest presenter.
He underscored the importance of regular public sensitization on the dangers of substance abuse within the military, saying such efforts would promote discipline and professionalism among officers and rank-and-file soldiers. “Continuous awareness is vital,” Iheme said. “The more informed our troops are, the better they will serve with integrity and clarity.”
The sensitization workshop is part of the Nigerian Army’s broader efforts to improve civil-military relations and ensure that troops operate within the boundaries of national and international humanitarian laws while responding to internal threats.