Military To Expand Structure Against Terror Attacks, Says Ihejirika

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika, said on Monday in Lagos that the army structure would be expanded to effectively counter terror attacks in the country.

Ihejirika, who made the statement at the opening ceremony of the seminar on democracy, peace building and conflict management, said the army would take steps to checkmate terrorists in the country.

“Several units are currently undergoing counter insurgency and terrorism training nationwide and our force structure will further be expanded to counter growing insecurity in the country,’’ Ihejirika said.

Represented by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division, Maj.-Gen. Kenneth Minimah, the COAS said the army had improved on its inter agency cooperation in intelligence gathering and sharing.

“Though the army tries to foster harmonious relations with the civil populace, Dog Units have been established to assist in detecting IEDs and other explosive materials,’’ he said.

Speaking on the occasion, the Commandant of NACOL, Maj.-Gen. Thompson Oliomogbe, said that the workshop would highlight crucial issues affecting terrorism and other forms of security challenges facing the country.

The seminar, organised by the Nigerian Army College of Logistics (NACOL), is expected to end on May 12.

The theme of the six-day seminar is: “Evolving Counter Terrorism Strategies for Enhanced NationalSecurity and Development.

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