The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, represented by Major General IB Abubakar, has praised the Department of Personnel Management (DPM) for its remarkable achievements and effective service delivery within a short period of its establishment.
He made this commendation during the opening ceremony of the Army Headquarters Department of Personnel Management Maiden Conference, held at the Department’s auditorium in Muhammadu Buhari Cantonment, Giri, Abuja. The conference brought together Deputy Chiefs of Staff (G1) from various Corps and Directorates, as well as Commanding Officers of Field Record Offices.
Describing the event as the first of its kind in the history of the Nigerian Army, the COAS noted that the conference was designed to equip officers and soldiers with essential knowledge to address emerging challenges, particularly in light of evolving security dynamics. He emphasized that the complex security situation in the country demands collective effort, strategic thinking, and enhanced capacity to effectively counter threats.
The COAS urged participants to actively engage with the sessions and leverage the expertise of seasoned resource persons expected to deliver insightful lectures. He also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support to the Nigerian Army, particularly in its ongoing efforts to tackle national security challenges.
In his welcome address, the Chief of Personnel Management, also represented by Major General IB Abubakar, stated that the conference was timely and aligned with the Army’s current operational priorities. He explained that the theme, “Personnel Management and Career Planning: Examining the Impact of Career Planning as a Tool for Actualizing the Nigerian Army Soldier First Concept,” reflects the COAS Command Philosophy and underscores the importance of structured career development in enhancing operational effectiveness.
He expressed confidence that deliberations during the conference would yield practical and forward looking recommendations capable of strengthening personnel management systems and ensuring sustainable development within the Nigerian Army. He also appreciated the COAS for his continued support and prompt release of funds, which facilitated the successful organization of the conference.
The event featured two key lectures following the opening ceremony. The first, titled “Utilizing Technology for Accurate Verification of Troop Strength and Deployment Status in Formations and Unit Settings,” was delivered by Brigadier General JH Bawa. The second lecture, presented by Lieutenant Colonel Rafisu Issa, focused on “Responsibilities of Army Headquarters Department of Personnel Management: A Tool for Progressive Career Management of Nigerian Army Soldiers.”
