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The Nigerian Army has warned its officers against the sale of arms and ammunition, stressing that it will take firm action against any personnel involved in such acts.
The Chief of Civil Military Affairs at Army Headquarters, Major General M. A. Etsu Ndagi, gave the warning at a sensitisation workshop on Human Rights and Professional Conduct for troops of the 17 Brigade and Sector 2 Joint Task Force, North-West Operation.
Major General Ndagi said the illegal sale of weapons fuels insecurity, threatens innocent lives and could also put soldiers at risk of attacks by criminal groups.
He emphasised that the army would deal decisively with anyone found guilty of the offence.
He also criticised the abuse of drugs and psychoactive substances by some personnel, noting that such behaviour weakens security operations.
He hinted that the army has zero tolerance for the practice and will appropriately sanction offenders.
While commending the troops for their resilience and commitment in tackling banditry and terrorism, Ndagi described the operations as complex and dangerous, as criminals often blend with civilians.
He urged personnel to strictly observe the law in carrying out their duties to minimise harm and maintain professionalism.
He further reaffirmed the army’s commitment to integrating human rights principles into all operations, describing respect for human rights as both a legal obligation and a strategic necessity that enhances public trust.
He also expressed concern over reports of spouse and child abandonment among some personnel, warning that such issues could pose security challenges, and encouraged participants to fully engage in the workshop.
Earlier, the Commander of the 17 Brigade in Katsina, Brigadier General Maikarfi Ibrahim, advised officers to use the workshop to seek clarity on issues related to conduct during operations.
He described the programme as timely and important, noting that it also addressed family cohesion.
The workshop, which took place at the Brigade Officers’ Mess, Natsinta Barracks, Katsina, attracted senior serving and retired officers from Army Headquarters, as well as resource persons from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency.
