Abuja: The Nigerian Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, has emphasized the significance of understanding military history in shaping the armed forces’ approach to contemporary warfare. Speaking at a seminar in Abuja titled ‘Military History and Decision-Making in the Nigerian Army: Drawing Lessons from Past Challenges and Prospects’, Badaru underscored the necessity of historical insight in constructing a secure future for the nation.
According to Voice of Nigeria, Badaru, represented by his Special Adviser on Technical Matters, Major General Ahmed Jubril (retired), stressed that learning from historical experiences can guide the development of practical doctrines to tackle the nation’s current security challenges. He expressed hope that the seminar would highlight the importance of military history as a fundamental component in shaping the tactics and strategies of today’s operations.
Despite technological advancements in modern warfare, Badaru reiterated the enduring importance of past lessons for futur
e success. Major General Steveson Olabanjo (retired), serving as the Resource Person, delivered a presentation on the ‘Culture of the Nigerian Army’. He highlighted the army’s transformation into a modern, professional force, respected by both national and international peers. Olabanjo pointed out that this evolution aligns with shifts in military strategy, tactics, and operational structures, emphasizing the impact of culture and tradition on the institution’s development.
Major General Garba Wahab (retired), Director General of the Army Resource Centre, echoed these sentiments, noting that the seminar’s focus on the evolution of the military is vital for planning the future. He emphasized the importance of understanding historical context to address present security challenges. The seminar saw participation from representatives of the military and other security agencies.