COAS Seeks Traditional Institutions’ Support in Combating Insecurity, Reviews Security Situation in Niger

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to strengthening security operations in Niger State through enhanced troop deployment, improved application of technology, and closer collaboration with traditional institutions and other critical stakeholders.
The Army Chief made this known on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, during a courtesy visit to the Etsu Nupe and Chairman of the Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, His Royal Highness Alhaji Dr Yahaya Abubakar, CFR, at his palace in Bida.

In a statement issued by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, Lieutenant General Shaibu explained that the visit was part of an on-the-spot assessment of ongoing military deployments across the state. According to him, the exercise was aimed at identifying operational gaps and determining areas requiring the deployment of additional troops and combat enablers to effectively address emerging security challenges.
He stressed the importance of intelligence-driven operations, particularly community-based and human intelligence, noting that traditional rulers remain indispensable partners in providing timely and actionable information to support military efforts.

The COAS also highlighted plans to leverage modern surveillance and operational technologies to enhance proactive security strategies, improve situational awareness, ensure timely responses, and bridge existing capability gaps within the state.
Commending the Etsu Nupe for his consistent support to troops and military personnel deployed in the area, Lieutenant General Shaibu described traditional institutions as indispensable allies in the fight against insecurity.

In his response, the Etsu Nupe pledged the continued support of traditional rulers to the Nigerian Army and other security agencies, assuring sustained community cooperation, intelligence sharing, and prayers for operational success.
He further lauded the professionalism and conduct of Nigerian Army personnel operating within the Nupe Kingdom, noting their positive engagement with local communities and their contributions to peace and stability.

The Nigerian Army, he assured, remains resolute in its mandate to protect lives and property and will continue to work closely with state governments, traditional institutions, relevant stakeholders, and local communities to restore and sustain peace across the country.