COAS Visits IBB, Abdulsalami, Niger Governor, Pledges Enhanced Security, Stronger Collaboration
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Tuesday paid courtesy visits to former Heads of State, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida and General Abdulsalami Abubakar, as well as the Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Umaru Bago, reaffirming the Nigerian Army’s commitment to operational excellence, enhanced security, and closer collaboration with state governments and national leaders.
In a statement, the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, said the COAS used the engagements to outline ongoing initiatives aimed at strengthening training, doctrine, and operational readiness across Army formations nationwide.
According to the statement, Lieutenant General Shaibu briefed the former leaders and the Niger State Government on a series of exercises currently being conducted across Army training institutions. The exercises, he explained, are designed to ensure personnel receive practical, mission-oriented training, while also enabling the Army to assess the operational disposition of combat units and identify gaps that may require additional troops or the establishment of new formations.
Emphasising the strategic importance of Niger State, given its vast landmass and security profile, the COAS noted the Army’s resolve to deploy all available resources and technology to address emerging threats.
“We are consolidating all available resources and leveraging technology to address security challenges effectively. Niger State holds a special place in our history. I have previously served here as a Training and Doctrine Commander, and many of my colleagues also share a deep connection with this state. In many ways, it is regarded as home,” he said.
Lieutenant General Shaibu also disclosed that he had undertaken operational visits to the 31st, 11th, and 18th Brigades in Bida to assess operational gaps and facilitate the provision of resources aimed at curbing recent insecurity in parts of the state.
In their separate remarks, former Heads of State, Generals Babangida and Abdulsalami Abubakar, warmly received the COAS, commending his dedication, professionalism, and visionary leadership. They praised the Nigerian Army for sustaining high standards of discipline and operational excellence over the years.
Both elder statesmen congratulated Lieutenant General Shaibu on his appointment and offered prayers for courage, wisdom, and sustained success as he leads the Army through contemporary security challenges.
Speaking on behalf of Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, the Deputy Governor, Dr Yakubu Garba, welcomed the COAS to Niger State and applauded the Nigerian Army for its proactive support in addressing security concerns across the state.
He outlined ongoing security challenges and expressed confidence that sustained collaboration with the Army would restore peace and stability.
“We are confident that, with the partnership of the Nigerian Army, we will overcome current challenges and protect lives and communities,” he said.
The visits underscore the Nigerian Army’s resolve to deepen collaboration with civil authorities and national leaders in safeguarding lives, property, and the nation’s security interests.
