The Foundation for Democracy in Africa (FDA), a foremost pro-Africa civil society organization, proudly extends its warmest congratulations to the officers and men of the Nigerian Army on their historic recognition as **Africa’s Best National Army in Counter-Terrorism Operations for 2025

 

This prestigious continental accolade, conferred by the African Security Watch at its ceremony in Banjul, The Gambia, is a resounding international validation of the visionary leadership of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu. It proves beyond doubt that the new command philosophy aimed at driving professionalism, readiness, and leadership within the force is not only highly effective but is yielding undeniable, life-saving results on the frontlines.

 

When Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu unveiled his command doctrine—termed PROSE-on February 25, 2026, while addressing officers of Senior Course 48 at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College in Jaji, he made it clear that the volatile, complex, and multi-dimensional security environment of Nigeria demanded a paradigm shift. He insisted that strong military leadership must be built on the pillars of *character, courage, and genuine concern for personnel.*

 

Today, the fruits of that doctrine are manifest. Through the implementation of the PROSE philosophy, we have witnessed a monumental shift in the operational posture of the Nigerian Army. Our troops are more motivated, highly encouraged, and tactically agile. The proof of this doctrine’s efficacy is evident in the daily triumphs of our military: countless kidnap victims rescued, sophisticated terrorist plots thwarted, criminal syndicates dismantled, and an unprecedented level of synergy and collaboration achieved with sister security agencies.

 

Speaking on this milestone, **Hassan Mohammed** of the Foundation for Democracy in Africa stated:

“The Nigerian Army has proven itself to be the shield of the nation. This award is not just a trophy; it is a testament to the sweat, blood, and strategic brilliance of a revitalized force. Lt. Gen. Shaibu’s command philosophy has successfully transformed the Army’s operational capabilities, making it a continental benchmark for counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism. We congratulate the COAS for turning vision into victory.”

 

The Foundation also commends the COAS for his exemplary leadership in dedicating this award to the gallant officers and soldiers who paid the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty, as well as to their families. This gesture reflects the deep-seated empathy and “concern for personnel” that lies at the heart of the PROSE doctrine.

 

As Maj. Gen. Tariweriye Gagariga formally presented the award to the COAS at the Army Headquarters in Abuja, after receiving it in Banjul, it signaled to the world that Nigeria remains the anchor of security in West Africa.

 

The Foundation for Democracy in Africa calls on all Nigerians, civil society groups, and international partners to continue to support the Nigerian Army. We urge the military command not to relent, but to sustain this momentum through enhanced intelligence-led operations and robust civil-military cooperation, securing a future of peace, democracy, and prosperity for Nigeria and the entire African continent.