The Army has identified two significant factors, namely insufficient attention to career development and subpar performance during training, as potential obstacles to the regular promotion of commissioned officers.
Major General Folusho Oyinlola, the Military Secretary of the Army, revealed this during a Career Planning Sensitization Lecture titled “Career Planning for NA Officers” for officers of the 6th Division of the Nigerian Army in Port Harcourt on Friday.
Oyinlola clarified that the military is structured to facilitate the regular advancement of commissioned officers. However, he emphasized that the lackadaisical attitude of junior officers could hinder their career progression as they gain experience in their roles.
He expressed regret that many officers often navigate their careers without a clear understanding of the necessary steps for achieving success in the military. Hence, he underscored the importance of training to equip young officers with the knowledge and tools needed for a successful military career.
He stated, “Many of the young officers go through their career without understanding what they can do, especially when they were young officers. The army is as unique as it is, from the moment you are commissioned, you go on courses and various trainings.
“So, you need to hit the ground running from when you were young officers. For instance, if you go for a course and you were careless and did not do very well in that course, when you are a senior officer it comes into play, when they are selecting people for promotion and posting or appointments.
“I am here to ensure that everybody understands that you must be serious from the beginning. We have to give them tips on how to enhance their career. They should ensure they put in the best without resting on their laurels.”
Also, the General Officer Commanding, 6 Division, Nigeria Army/ Land Component Commander, South-South, Operation Delta Safe, Major-Gen. Jamal Abdussalam noted that the army spells out terms and conditions of engagement of an officer for them to be diligent in service.
Abdussalam said the training was to enable officers to get a balanced promotion, posting, and appointments while in service.
