COAS Bi-Annual Conference: Army Honours Fallen Heroes, Wounded Troops
The Nigerian Army on Monday reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare of personnel and the families of fallen soldiers as the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, presented Nigerian Army Personnel Insurance cheques to relatives of slain troops and soldiers wounded in action.
The symbolic presentation took place during the opening ceremony of the COAS First Bi-Annual Conference 2026 at the Nigerian Army Conference Centre and Suites, Abuja.
In a statement issued by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the gesture was described as a reflection of the Army’s enduring resolve to honour the sacrifices of its personnel, support bereaved families and stand firmly with troops injured in the line of duty.
Declaring the conference open, Lieutenant General Shaibu stressed that the confidence and support of Nigerians remain vital to achieving sustainable security and operational success across the country.
He described the conference as a strategic platform for reviewing ongoing military operations, assessing gains recorded in the first half of 2026 and developing operational strategies for the remainder of the year.
According to him, deliberations will focus on operational readiness, emerging threats and measures aimed at enhancing effectiveness across various theatres of operation.
The Army Chief commended officers and soldiers for their resilience, gallantry and professionalism in tackling the nation’s security challenges. He paid tribute to fallen heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in defence of the country, noting that their courage and legacy remain central to Nigeria’s unity and stability.
Reinforcing his “Soldier First Concept,” the COAS said troop welfare, morale, training and empowerment remain critical to sustaining combat effectiveness. He urged commanders at all levels to maintain close engagement with personnel to preserve morale and operational readiness.
Lieutenant General Shaibu also disclosed that the Nigerian Army is expanding its operational footprint nationwide through the establishment of new formations, increased recruitment, improved infrastructure, enhanced welfare packages and upgraded healthcare services.
He added that prompt medical evacuation arrangements, both within and outside Nigeria, remain a key component of the Army’s support framework for troops.
On civil-military relations, the COAS emphasised that public support continues to serve as a major force multiplier in ongoing operations. He noted that the Army would sustain people-oriented initiatives alongside kinetic operations to strengthen trust and stability in host communities.
The Army Chief further expressed appreciation to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his continued support to the military, particularly in the acquisition of modern equipment, refurbishment of operational platforms and enhancement of operational capabilities.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Major General Bamidele Alabi, said the conference would consolidate operational gains and chart a clear course for the remaining months of the year.
He commended the leadership of the COAS and the dedication of troops engaged in counter-insurgency and anti-banditry operations across the country, while urging participants to make meaningful contributions during deliberations.
The conference is expected to feature high-level strategic engagements aimed at strengthening the Nigerian Army’s capacity to respond effectively to evolving security threats while sustaining its commitment to personnel welfare and national security.
