The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa, has warned that any commander who fails to act decisively in the line of duty will face court-martial.
Issuing fresh operational directives, Gen. Musa ordered strict adherence to the military’s rules of engagement, stressing that troops must protect communities and not infringe on their rights.
He clarified that soldiers are permitted to open fire only when their lives, the lives of their colleagues, or critical infrastructure are under imminent threat.
“Our duty is to protect our communities, not infringe on their rights. Fire only when lives are at stake or when critical infrastructure is under attack. Any commander who fails to act will face court-martial. Indolence will not be tolerated,” the CDS said.
He added that negligence would be punished severely, while courage, hard work, and excellence would be rewarded with commendations, awards, and promotions.
“We will punish negligence, but reward courage, hard work, and excellence. Protect the people, destroy the enemy, and uphold the honor of the Armed Forces,” he declared.
The warning comes amid ongoing military operations against insurgents, bandits, and other criminal groups across the country.




