RismadarVoice Reporters
May 21, 2026
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has charged commanders across the Nigerian Army to strengthen operational effectiveness through accountability, professionalism and result-oriented leadership.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the Chief of Army Staff Bi-Annual Conference 2026 held at the Nigerian Army Conference Centre and Suites, Asokoro, Abuja, the Army Chief said the conference provided an opportunity for critical assessment and the development of strategies to tackle Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.
Lieutenant General Shaibu said discussions at the conference focused on improving operational responses, strengthening training frameworks and adapting to emerging security realities.
According to him, the resolutions reached are aimed at building a more agile, combat-ready and technologically advanced Army capable of responding effectively to contemporary threats.
Highlighting ongoing efforts to improve operational capacity, the COAS disclosed that the Nigerian Army had acquired additional tactical drones and reconfigured some aviation assets for combat operations.
He noted that the upgrades had enhanced intelligence gathering, precision targeting, operational mobility and casualty evacuation capabilities.
The Army Chief also pointed to progress in recruitment, advanced military training, professional education and leadership development within the service.
He stressed the need for discipline, competence and merit-based leadership, describing them as critical to maintaining institutional integrity and operational efficiency.
Reaffirming his “soldier-first” philosophy, Shaibu directed commanders to prioritise troop welfare through prompt payment of entitlements, improved healthcare services, educational support and better welfare packages for personnel and their families.
“The true value of this conference lies in the effective implementation of its resolutions on the field,” he said.
The COAS also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support to the Nigerian Army, as well as the Minister of Defence, Minister of State for Defence, Chief of Defence Staff, Service Chiefs and heads of security and intelligence agencies for their collaboration.
