Lagos: The immediate past Commander, Corps of Signals (CCS) of the Nigerian Army, retired Maj.-Gen. Nosakhare Ugbo has commended the remarkable upgrade of the military’s communications infrastructure, describing it as a strategic leap that enhances operational coordination, intelligence sharing, and battlefield efficiency across commands.
Ugbo made this assertion on Thursday, during his passing out ceremony as the 39th CCS, NA, at the Corps of Signals Parade Ground, Apapa.
Maj.-Gen. Mohammed Abdullahi succeeds Ugbo as the 40th CCS. Ugbo said that the communications support provided to all theatres of operations had significantly improved over the last nine months.
“We have continued to be imaginative, innovative and creative in formulating workable ideas that have enabled us to achieve unimaginable feats.
“Our network engineers and technicians have carried out installations in the most challenging combat circumstances and terrains.
“Our programmers and analysts have developed codes and protocols that have enhanced the reliability of most of our systems,” he said.
Ugbo said that it was also gratifying to highlight the outstanding efforts of the maintenance team in reviving several unserviceable pieces of communications equipment.
“The list of what we have achieved together is impressive and encouraging. It shows that we signalers have the can-do spirit.
“I, therefore, urge you to continue to strive to be the best versions of yourselves; remember, you can continually improve on your standards.
“We made deliberate efforts to enhance the standards of technical, tactical and innovative training in NASS,” he said.
He said that during his time, most training manuals were reviewed to reflect current advances in the fields of telecommunications and ICT, as well as contemporary military operations.
“Efforts were also made to utilise artificial intelligence and data science tools to enhance training and operational efficiency.
These are to ensure that troops of the Corps are up to date with advancements in military communications and contemporary military doctrine.
“Significant improvements have been made to the training facilities within the School of Signals, while the physical infrastructure was not left unattended,” Ugbo said.
The general stated that he did not neglect the welfare and well-being of personnel and their families, which was a key focus of the former Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede.
According to him, troops deployed to various theatres of operations were routinely rotated to relieve them and enhance their mental well-being.
“We also encouraged sporting activities for improved physical wellness, while recreational facilities were upgraded.
“To further enhance the welfare of personnel, the Nigerian Army Signals Cooperative Society was established, while we also ensured that a fund for development and welfare was instituted.
“All of these activities and improvements could not have been possible without our collective commitment, dedication and understanding,” he said.
Ugbo appreciated the support and guidance of the former COAS, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, now the Chief of Defence Staff.
“I appreciate him for believing in our capability to transform the Corps of Signals and for always approving our requests for positive changes,” he said.
The general also appreciated his spouse, children, and family members, who he said had been pillars of support that stood in the gap. At the same time, he pursued his professional calling across various theatres of operations.
Ugbo urged all serving personnel to uphold the tenets of military professionalism.
“For signallers, you must continue to stay focused in your drive towards creativity, innovation and application of technology in enhancing the operational capacity and capabilities of the Nigerian Army and indeed, Nigeria.
“I urge you all to support and cooperate with the CCS as he takes the Corps of Signals to the next level of impossibility when it comes to developing solutions in the field of telecommunications and ICT,” he said.
