January 15 (AFRD)

 On Armed Forces Remembrance Day, it's vital to acknowledge the dedication and sacrifices of the Nigerian military, which plays a significant role in both international peacekeeping missions and managing domestic security challenges. In recent decades, the Nigerian Armed Forces have been engaged in several foreign peacekeeping operations, particularly within the framework of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union (AU). Additionally, the Nigerian military has been heavily involved in tackling internal insurgencies, notably against Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in the northeast, as well as various other security threats from armed banditry and ethnic militias across the country.

Recent History of Nigerian Military Engagements

1. Peacekeeping Missions Abroad:

   The Nigerian military has been active in peacekeeping missions under the United Nations, ECOWAS, and AU banners. Notably:

   - Liberian Civil War (1990s): Nigerian troops played a central role in ECOWAS peacekeeping efforts to end the Liberian Civil War.

   - Sierra Leone (1997–2000): Nigerian forces were also pivotal in stabilizing Sierra Leone after a brutal civil war.

   - Darfur, Sudan (2000s): Nigeria contributed troops to the AU peacekeeping mission in the Darfur region of Sudan, where they helped to stabilize the region.

   

   These missions have earned the Nigerian military a reputation for professionalism and resilience in challenging environments.

2. Internal Insurgencies:

   Domestically, the Nigerian military has been heavily engaged in combating insurgent groups:

   - Boko Haram/ISWAP: Since 2009, the military has been at the forefront of the fight against Boko Haram and ISWAP, which have caused significant loss of life and displaced millions.

   - Ethnic and Banditry Conflicts: In addition to the war on terrorism, Nigerian forces have been tasked with containing banditry, communal violence, and militancy in regions such as the Northwest and North-Central zones.

   - Mend and Niger Delta: While the intensity has decreased in recent years, Nigerian military forces have also faced insurgencies in the Niger Delta, where armed groups demand greater control over the region's oil resources.

Survival Skills in Long-Term Deployments

For military personnel deployed in both combat and non-combat environments, long-term survival is often tied to effective resource management, especially in austere environments where supply lines may be unreliable. Here are some methods to ensure sustainable survival, especially when combat isn't the primary concern but resource scarcity is a risk:

1. Water Conservation and Management:

   - Desalination or Filtration: If operating near a body of water (saltwater or contaminated), portable desalination units or water purification tablets can be a lifesaver. There are also compact filtration systems (like the LifeStraw) that allow soldiers to drink directly from potentially contaminated sources.

   - Rainwater Harvesting: In areas with periodic rainfall, setting up a rudimentary rainwater collection system can supplement limited water supply. Simple tarps, containers, and funnel systems can make a significant difference.

   - Water Rationing: Teaching soldiers how to ration their water, especially in hot climates, is crucial. A common guideline is the "one liter per day" rule, but the environment (heat, activity level) can dictate adjustments. Awareness of dehydration signs can help prevent severe conditions like heatstroke.

 2. Food Storage and Management:

   - MREs (Meals Ready to Eat): While often not the most enjoyable, MREs are a reliable source of nutrition that can last for extended periods. For long-term survival, ensuring proper storage and rotation of these rations is important.

   - Dehydrated and Freeze-Dried Foods: These are lightweight, non-perishable, and easy to carry. Dehydrated foods can be rehydrated with minimal water, making them ideal for resource-constrained environments.

   - High-Calorie, Non-Perishable Snacks: In addition to MREs, soldiers can carry energy-dense, long-lasting snacks like nuts, jerky, or energy bars. These can provide vital calories when on the move or during extended patrols.

   - Improvised Cooking: In some situations, soldiers may need to forage or improvise their food supply. This requires knowledge of local edible plants, hunting, and the ability to create makeshift cooking devices.

 3. Mental Resilience and Psychological Well-Being:

   - Routine and Purpose: One of the challenges in non-combat environments is staying mentally sharp. Soldiers should maintain a daily routine with physical exercises, set goals, and focus on maintaining their skills.

   - Camaraderie and Communication: Building strong relationships within the team is vital for morale. Regular communication with family and peers, when possible, can also reduce feelings of isolation.

   - Meditation and Relaxation: In stressful environments, maintaining mental health is crucial. Techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and mindfulness can help mitigate stress, reduce anxiety, and improve decision-making under pressure.

 4. Security and Vigilance:

   - Situational Awareness: Even when not engaged in active combat, soldiers must remain alert to potential threats. This includes watching for signs of local unrest, monitoring supply routes, and being prepared to adapt quickly if the security situation deteriorates.

   - Camouflage and Concealment: When deployed in hostile territories, the ability to blend into the environment is essential, even when there’s no active fighting. Camouflage nets, natural terrain features, and the strategic use of shelter can reduce detection.

5. Efficient Use of Technology:

   - Satellite Communication and GPS: Communication and navigation technology can be a lifeline in remote areas. Even when resources are scarce, ensuring reliable communication with command or adjacent units can prevent supply issues and coordinate relief efforts effectively.

   - Solar Power: Portable solar chargers for communication devices or small electric tools can help extend operational capacity, especially if fuel and other energy resources are limited.

Conclusion

The Nigerian military continues to play a crucial role in both international peacekeeping and in managing the internal security challenges of the country. As the military adapts to evolving threats, the ability to sustain operations—whether in combat or peacekeeping—relies heavily on resourcefulness, training, and strategic planning. Efficient food and water management, along with maintaining physical and mental resilience, are critical skills for surviving in tough conditions. Developing these capabilities will enhance the military's effectiveness in fulfilling its mandate, even during prolonged deployments in resource-constrained environments.