Chief of Army Staff Lt‑Gen. Waidi Shaibu has issued a direct warning to Nigerian Army personnel, urging them to refrain from drug abuse and to reject the stigma that surrounds mental‑health challenges.
Speaking to troops in a recent address, the army chief highlighted that substance misuse not only jeopardises individual health but also undermines operational readiness and unit cohesion. He stressed that the armed forces must maintain the highest standards of physical and psychological fitness.
Shaibu also called attention to the pervasive stigma attached to mental‑health issues within the military, noting that fear of judgment can prevent soldiers from seeking the professional help they need. He encouraged service members to view mental‑wellness as a critical component of overall combat effectiveness.
The chief’s remarks come as part of broader efforts to promote well‑being among the ranks, aligning with ongoing campaigns across the Nigerian defence establishment that aim to provide counseling services and raise awareness about the dangers of drug dependence.
Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, relies heavily on its army—one of the largest in the region—to address internal security challenges. Ensuring the health and morale of its soldiers is therefore seen as essential to maintaining national stability.
<small>Source: Punch Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>