The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) is reporting that the examination for the officers is a significant milestone for the officers in the Nigerian Army.
NAN also reports that the examination is being held at the Nigerian Army Infantry Corps Centre, Ihejirika Auditorium in the Jaji Military Cantonment, Jaji, Kaduna State.
The examination is being conducted by the Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), Nigerian Army.
The President of the Examination Board, Major General Kelvin Aligbe, while addressing the directing staff and candidates on Sunday in Jaji, Kaduna State, said the examination was designed to assess the officers’ determination, capabilities, and proficiency in their respective areas of specialisation.
He said the comprehensive syllabus covered eight subjects, including tactics, low-intensity conflict, geopolitics, and military law.
Aligbe emphasised the importance of integrity and transparency in the conduct of the examination.
He assured the candidates that the examination panel and directing staff were committed to ensuring the sanctity of its process.
The president also outlined the rules and regulations governing the examination, including the consequences of malpractice and the requirements for passing it.
“Candidates who pass the examination will be selected to attend the Senior Staff Course based on merit and the slots allotted to the Department of Land Warfare,” he said.
According to Aligbe, the examination is a crucial step in the career development of Nigerian Army officers, and it was expected that the outcome would determine the future leadership of the army.
He said: “With its emphasis on merit and integrity, the examination is set to produce the next generation of leaders who will shape the future of the Nigerian Army.
“Candidates must score a minimum of 50 percent in all subjects to qualify for selection to the Armed Forces Command and Staff College.
“I believe that while the majority of you are on the first attempt, others are attempting the examination for the second time.
“Let me assure you that this is an examination you can pass without resorting to illegal or fraudulent means.
“I also want to assure you that if you have prepared for this examination, you will pass without resorting to any form of malpractice.”
Aligbe said there was no excuse for failure, adding: “I expect nothing short of 100 percent pass in this examination.”
On number attempts for the examination, he said available records showed that some of the candidates were making the second attempt, adding: “Let me remind you that Army Headquarters Policy allows a maximum of three attempts for any candidate to pass this examination.”
Aligbe intimated the candidates on the introduction of a “Certificates of Excellence” and “Letters of Commendation”, which would be presented to the officers who emerge first, second, and third in order of merit.
He said: “Additionally, cash gifts will also be given to these officers.
“TRADOC Nigerian Army will also send copies of the Certificates and Letters of Commendation to Army Headquarters, Department of Military Secretary for insertion into the personal files of the awardees.”
Earlier, the Commander, Infantry Corps, Major General Usman Yusuf, appreciated the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, and other commanding officers for their support.
Yusuf emphasised on the examination’s importance for career progression and future responsibilities
He encouraged the candidates to perform well, highlighting the consequences of failure.
He reminded them of the Nigerian Army’s strict policies on examination malpractice and limited attempts.
The Commander urged the candidates to be focused and dedicated.
