The Nigerian Army Resource Centre (NARC) Abuja today, Monday 20 June 2022, held its Weekly Senior Research Fellows and Subject Experts Presentation at Hall B, TY Buratai Block, NARC, Abuja.
The first presentation was made by Brigadier General OD Donibo, Subject Expert for Central America. The General’s presentation focused on Nicaragua’s recent approval of Russian military deployments within its borders. He noted that Russia was actively searching for new allies against the west and postulated that this new development was a step in this direction. The Expert added that a Country’s foreign policy is vital to its strength projection and economic and international relations. Therefore, his presentation dovetailed into Nigeria’s foreign policies and her non-alignment stance on crucial global issues. The implications of these positions and the need to establish clear domestic and foreign policies in line with our national interest were highlighted.
The day’s second presentation was by Brigadier General AA Adanogu, Subject Expert for the Middle East. His presentation was drawn from the UAE’s recent warning on the implications of unchecked drone proliferation on global security. In the course of it, he highlighted the benefits of drones and their value in any given society. However, where these drones fall into the wrong hands, there is a great danger to the nation and its citizens. Regarding Nigeria, the presenter noted that drones had been employed by the State and non-state actors, particularly insurgent groups such as the Boko Haram Terrorists. He emphasised the need to address this troubling development and further equip the military with more sophisticated weapons drones.
The last presentation for the day was made by Major General LF Abdullahi, Subject Experts on the Indian Subcontinent. The General’s presentation discussed the increase in diesel and petrol prices in Sri Lanka and the attendant difficulties experienced by the citizenry. The situation in Sri Lanka was contrasted with the recent hike in the price of diesel across Nigeria and the continuing petrol subsidy. The best ways to arrest this trend and the need to address the subsidy regime in the country critically were the major takeaways from this presentation.
Present at the briefing were the Director General, Major General GA Wahab (Rtd), Director of Research, Professor CBN Ogbogbo and other management staff, Senior Research Fellows and Research Fellows, Consultants, senior officers, and other staff of the centre.