COAS drives operational excellence, tasks commanders on combat readiness
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has charged commanders across the Nigerian Army to intensify operational effectiveness through strict accountability, professionalism and results-driven leadership.
Delivering his closing remarks at the Chief of Army Staff Bi-Annual Conference 2026 held at the Nigerian Army Conference Centre and Suites, Asokoro, Abuja, the Army Chief noted that the conference achieved its core objectives, providing a robust platform for critical assessment and forward-looking strategies to address Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.
He emphasized that deliberations during the conference focused on sharpening operational responses, strengthening training frameworks and adapting to the complexities of the contemporary security environment. According to him, the outcomes are geared towards building a more agile, combat-ready, technologically advanced and mission-oriented force.
Highlighting ongoing capability enhancements, the COAS pointed to the acquisition of additional tactical drones and the reconfiguration of Army aviation assets for combat roles. He noted that these advancements have significantly improved intelligence gathering, precision targeting, operational mobility, and casualty evacuation.
In a statement Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director Army Public Relations explained that the Army Chief also underscored sustained progress in recruitment, advanced training, professional military education, and leadership development. He stressed that a deliberate commitment to discipline, competence and meritocracy remains essential to strengthening institutional integrity and sustaining a high-performance force.
Reaffirming his “soldier-first” philosophy, Lieutenant General Shaibu stated that well-motivated troops operating in conducive environments are critical to mission success. He therefore directed commanders to prioritize troop welfare, including prompt payment of entitlements, improved healthcare, educational support and enhanced welfare systems for personnel and their families.
He urged participants to translate conference resolutions into measurable operational outcomes, stressing that the true value of the conference lies in effective implementation on the field.
The COAS expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support and strategic guidance, as well as to the Minister of Defence, Minister of State for Defence, Chief of Defence Staff, Service Chiefs, heads of security and intelligence agencies for their collaboration.
The event featured the presentation of COAS commendation plaques to senior officers who successfully completed their tours of duty, as well as the unveiling of the Nigerian Army Heritage and Feature Centre insignia.
