RismadarVoice Reporters
July 29, 2026
The Nigerian Army has been recognised as Africa’s Best National Army in Counter-Terrorism Operations for 2025, earning continental recognition for its operational successes against terrorism and violent extremism.
The award, conferred by African Security Watch, was presented to the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, at the Army Headquarters in Abuja after it was earlier received on behalf of the Army during the African Security Watch Awards Ceremony in Banjul, The Gambia.
According to the organisers, the Nigerian Army received the honour in recognition of its sustained intelligence-led operations, coordinated joint military campaigns, civil-military cooperation, force development and capacity-building efforts that have significantly degraded terrorist groups and strengthened regional security.
Receiving the award, Lieutenant General Shaibu described the recognition as a tribute to the courage, professionalism and resilience of officers and soldiers engaged in counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations across the country.
He dedicated the award to military personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty, as well as their families, acknowledging their sacrifices in the defence of Nigeria’s sovereignty and the protection of its citizens.
The Army Chief said the recognition validates the effectiveness of the Nigerian Army’s evolving counter-terrorism strategy and reinforces its position as a leading force in combating insurgency on the African continent.
He reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to sustaining its operational gains through enhanced intelligence-driven operations, stronger inter-agency collaboration, continuous training, improved personnel welfare and the acquisition of modern military capabilities.
African Security Watch noted that the Nigerian Army has become a reference point for professionalism and operational effectiveness in counter-terrorism operations across Africa, citing its contributions to restoring security in affected communities and promoting regional peace and stability.
