“Behind the Guns: Nigerian Troops Face Hard Truths on Human Rights and Professional Conduct”
By Paul Ebi
The Army Headquarters Department of Civil-Military Affairs conducted a one-day sensitization workshop on Human Rights and Professional Conduct for troops of Headquarters Sector 2, Joint Task Force (JTF) OPERATION HADIN KAI, at the Headquarters Sector 2 Training Hall in Damaturu on Wednesday, 26 November 2025.
The workshop was aimed at educating troops on the constitutional imperative of protecting and promoting the human rights of law-abiding citizens while performing their duties.
Speaking at the opening of the event, the Chief of Civil-Military Affairs, Major General Musa A. Etsu-Ndagi, emphasized that the modern battlefield extends beyond physical confrontations to include public perception. He highlighted that every action—or inaction—by soldiers could either strengthen or weaken the Nigerian Army’s operational legitimacy, national security objectives, and diplomatic relations.
Major General Etsu-Ndagi urged troops to adhere strictly to the code of conduct, rules of engagement, and human rights principles to preserve the Army’s image and enhance its operational effectiveness.
During the workshop, Major Joel R. Mamza, Assistant Director Legal of the Department of Civil-Military Affairs, lectured troops on human rights and professional conduct in various operational scenarios. Brigadier General K.T. Archibong (Rtd) led a session on mental health and family cohesion, while Chief Superintendent Usman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Yobe State Command, educated troops on the dangers of psychoactive substance abuse.
The initiative reflects the Nigerian Army’s ongoing commitment to professional excellence, discipline, and respect for human rights, reinforcing its role in maintaining peace and security across the nation.
Ojo AdeneganMajor, Acting Director Information ManagementArmy Headquarters Department of Civil-Military Affairs, Abuja
#NigerianArmyInfo #HqNigerianArmy
