Army Chief Reveals What Will Determine Nigerian Army Success

(Waidi Shaibu. The News Chronicle)

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, says the Nigerian Army’s effectiveness will depend heavily on the quality of leadership from its commanders.

He made the remarks on Wednesday in Kaduna during a seminar on strategic leadership and command.

Shaibu described the gathering as an important platform for senior Army leadership to discuss evolving demands of command, share operational lessons and strengthen leadership skills.

He said modern warfare requires commanders to constantly learn and adapt their approaches to new realities.

While equipment, technology and force structure matter, Shaibu stressed that leadership ultimately determines how effectively those resources are used.

Well-led units adapt faster, stay cohesive under pressure, build confidence and turn tactical actions into lasting strategic results.

The Army chief identified terrorism, insurgency, banditry, transnational crime, cyber threats and information warfare as major challenges reshaping military operations.

He urged commanders to think strategically, stay innovative and make sound decisions in uncertain, fast-changing environments.

Strategic leadership goes beyond authority, Shaibu said.

It requires commanders to shape organizational culture, develop future leaders, anticipate change, maintain credibility and align military actions with national objectives.

He warned about the growing threat of misinformation and malign influence operations that could undermine the military by eroding public confidence.

He urged commanders to consider the information environment in planning and conducting operations, stressing that military actions must remain professional, lawful and able to withstand public scrutiny.

Shaibu emphasized discipline, respect for human rights, civilian protection and strict adherence to rules of engagement, noting that tactical conduct has strategic consequences.

The recent expansion of the Army from eight to 12 divisions has created new opportunities and greater leadership responsibilities, he said.

Commanders must transform newly established units into credible fighting forces by enforcing high standards, developing leaders and building institutional resilience.

Military officials at the seminar called for frank discussions, shared experiences and practical recommendations to strengthen command effectiveness across the Nigerian Army.