COAS reveals reasons for troops’ recent successes

Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has attributed the Nigerian Army’s recent operational successes to the acquisition of modern combat equipment, expanded aviation capabilities, improved troop welfare and sustained government support.

Speaking during an interactive session with media executives on Saturday at the Obi Wali International Conference Centre in Port Harcourt as part of activities marking the 163rd Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026, Shaibu said the Army’s enhanced capabilities have significantly improved its effectiveness in tackling security challenges across the country.

According to the Army chief, the procurement of Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles, Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs), surveillance unmanned aerial vehicles, armed drones, and the expansion of Nigerian Army Aviation have strengthened operational reach, precision, and rapid response.

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He also credited President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing strategic leadership and critical resources that have enhanced the Army’s capacity to confront emerging security threats.

Shaibu said ongoing joint operations involving the Nigerian Army, other security agencies and international partners have resulted in the neutralisation of key terrorist elements, disruption of criminal networks and the restoration of stability in several operational theatres.

Highlighting efforts to strengthen manpower, the COAS disclosed that the Army has expanded its recruit training capacity with the establishment of two additional training depots in Osogbo, Osun State, and Amasiri-Idda in Ebonyi, alongside the existing Nigerian Army Depot in Zaria.

He said the move is aimed at producing more disciplined and combat-ready personnel to meet evolving security demands.

On troop welfare, Shaibu said the Army continues to prioritise the well-being of its personnel through the construction of new accommodation, subsidised education in Nigerian Army Command Schools, improved healthcare services and the implementation of the Group Life Assurance Scheme, which he said has benefited about 15,000 personnel.

He added that recently approved welfare packages by the Federal Government are designed to boost morale, strengthen esprit de corps, and enable troops to remain focused on their operational responsibilities.

The Army chief further said prudent resource management, transparency and increased patronage of indigenous defence industries, including the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), the Command Engineering Depot in Kaduna and the Special Vehicle Plant in Bauchi, have improved self-reliance, logistics and institutional efficiency.

Shaibu also commended the media for its professionalism and balanced reportage, describing credible information management as an essential component of modern warfare and national security.

He urged journalists and Nigerians to continue supporting the Armed Forces through responsible reporting, constructive engagement and collective vigilance.