Army Trained To Combat Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Troops under Operation FANSAN YAMMA have undergone training on Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and stress management to mitigate the psychological and emotional impact of operational stressors.
The session on stress management techniques was organised by the Defence Headquarters in Sokoto focused on equipping personnel with strategies to cope with the mental toll of military operations.
Speaking at the event, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa represented by the Defence Headquarters Director of Innovation and Concept Development, Major General Warrah Idris emphasised on the significance of addressing mental health challenges among soldiers.
He said that over the years, the psychological effects of operational stress had been largely overlooked, as a result taken a toll on the emotional and mental state of personnel.
“Therefore, let me commend this timely initiative designed to confront the often-overlooked emotional challenges faced by our gallant personnel in the line of duty.”
The CDS said that troops not only face physical threats on the battlefield but also invisible wounds caused by prolonged exposure to combat stress, fatigue, and traumatic experiences.
“These battlefield challenges, if unattended, can affect not just the individual’s well-being but also unit cohesion, troop morale, and most importantly post-service reintegration,” he added.
According to him, the focus of the training aligns with the military’s commitment to its holistic welfare which underscores the importance of the Army’s collective resolve to prioritize the mental health and resilience of its personnel.
He said that the training marks the beginning of a sustained and institutionalized framework for mental health awareness and psychological support within the Nigerian Army, adding that strength is not measured by firepower or tactics alone, but also by emotional and psychological resilience.
In his remarks, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division and Commander, Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Ibikunle Ajose, said the Nigerian Army has made tremendous sacrifices in the fight against insurgency, banditry, and other emerging security threats that expose troops to extreme emotional stressors which if left unaddressed, could have lasting psychological impacts.
He said that operations at the frontlines are both physically demanding and psychologically draining, a reality that warrants effective PTSD and stress management interventions.
“This training will equip our troops with the tools and techniques needed to manage stress, overcome trauma, and enhance emotional intelligence in high-stakes operational environments”
He added that the programme would provide a unique platform for participants to deepen their understanding of PTSD, identify early warning signs, and develop coping strategies.
The GOC commended the Defence Headquarters for its proactive initiative, which he said prioritises the total well-being of its personnel.
He urged the participants to be open-minded, receptive and engage as the knowledge gained from the training is not only vital but critical to their professional and patriotic effectiveness.
Army Trained To Combat Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is first published on The Whistler Newspaper
