Nigerian Army Reforms Data and Record-Keeping Processes

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, says persistent gaps in data management and record-keeping across Nigerian Army formations have continued to hamper effective administration and operational efficiency.

Oluyede stated this on Tuesday at the opening of the third edition of the Data Management and Record-Keeping Seminar organised by the Army Headquarters Department of Military Secretary in Abuja. He was represented by Maj.-Gen. Philip Eromosele, Deputy Director-General of the Nigerian Army Heritage and Future Centre (NAHFC).

The COAS stressed that accurate data is critical for accountability, career planning, and strategic decision-making in today’s digital era.

“Effective record-keeping and data management are indispensable tools for operational efficiency and accountability. Accurate and accessible records enable us to track progress, identify areas requiring improvement, and respond swiftly to emerging challenges. This is why we must adopt the highest standards in data storage and document security at all levels,” he said.

Oluyede added that the seminar, themed “Effective Data Management and Record Keeping: A Key Element in Ensuring a Professional Nigerian Army in a Digital Era,” underscored the need for the army to embrace technology-driven processes as part of broader knowledge management mechanisms.

Earlier, the Military Secretary, Maj.-Gen. Everest Okoro, admitted that challenges in data handling persist, largely due to limited adoption of technology and negative personnel attitudes.

He said recent experiences had revealed shortcomings in data collection and record-keeping, partly because of the misconception that the responsibility lay only with three statutory departments — Administration, Military Secretary, and Personnel Management.

“Let me be clear: data management and record-keeping in the Nigerian Army is a collective duty. Every corps, formation and establishment has a role to play,” Okoro said.

He explained that the seminar was aimed at instilling professionalism in data handling, ensuring records are accurate, secure, and readily available for decision-making.

Okoro charged participants to embrace the training with open minds, noting that best practices shared would help the army preserve vital historical records, optimise administrative processes, and enhance overall effectiveness.