The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, on Monday reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigerian Army to defeating terrorism, banditry and other emerging security threats across the country through enhanced professionalism, operational effectiveness and joint security collaboration.

Shaibu stated this while declaring open the Chief of Army Staff First Bi-Annual Conference 2026 at the Nigerian Army Conference Centre in Abuja.

The conference brought together principal staff officers, formation commanders, heads of military establishments, senior officers, regimental sergeant majors and representatives of other security agencies to deliberate on Nigeria’s security challenges and operational strategies.

The COAS said the Nigerian Army had continued to record significant operational gains in various theatres of operation, particularly in the North-East, North-West and North-Central regions.

According to him, troops have demonstrated courage, resilience and professionalism in counter-insurgency and anti-banditry operations despite difficult operational conditions.

He noted that the Army remained focused on protecting Nigeria’s sovereignty and creating a secure environment for socio-economic activities to thrive across the country.

Shaibu, however, acknowledged that the military had experienced setbacks in some operational areas, stressing that such challenges would not weaken the resolve of troops in confronting criminal elements threatening national security.
“Our journey has not been without setbacks, but the Nigerian Army remains resolute and committed to addressing all security challenges confronting our dear nation.

“The professionalism and sacrifices of officers and soldiers have continued to contribute immensely to the successes achieved so far in various theatres of operations,” he said.

The Army chief stated that the evolving nature of security threats required innovative approaches, realistic operational reviews and stronger coordination among security agencies.

He explained that the conference was convened to critically assess ongoing military operations, evaluate operational challenges and develop practical strategies aimed at improving operational performance.

According to him, presentations and discussions during the conference should focus on generating realistic and implementable solutions capable of strengthening operational effectiveness nationwide.

Shaibu reiterated his command philosophy of transforming the Nigerian Army into a more professional, adaptable, combat-ready and resilient force capable of effectively discharging its constitutional responsibilities within a joint and multi-agency environment.

He disclosed that Army Headquarters had intensified support to formations and units through improved logistics, realistic training exercises and enhanced welfare initiatives for troops.

The COAS also stressed the importance of discipline, loyalty, courage and selfless service as core values necessary for sustaining the Army’s operational successes.

He urged officers and soldiers to remain committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and strict adherence to rules of engagement.

According to him, improved discipline and professionalism among troops had significantly enhanced civil-military relations and strengthened public confidence in the Nigerian Army.

Shaibu commended officers and soldiers for their sacrifices and patriotism in the defence of the country, assuring them of continued support from Army Headquarters.

He charged participants at the conference to contribute meaningfully during deliberations to ensure the emergence of practical strategies capable of addressing Nigeria’s complex security environment.

The COAS also expressed appreciation to the Federal Government for its continued support to the Nigerian Army, particularly in the areas of operational funding, training and equipment acquisition.

He further thanked officers and soldiers for their unwavering commitment to duty and urged them to sustain the momentum in ongoing military operations across the country.