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From Molly Kilete, Abuja, Faheem Lawal, Lagos
Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has charged commanders across the Nigerian Army to intensify operational effectiveness through accountability, professionalism, and results-driven leadership.
He also announced the acquisition of additional tactical drones and the reconfiguration of Army aviation assets for combat operations.
Shaibu spoke yesterday while delivering his closing remarks at the Chief of Army Staff Bi-Annual Conference 2026 held at the Nigerian Army Conference Centre and Suites, Asokoro, Abuja.
According to acting Director, Army Public Relations, Appolonia Anele ,the Army Chief said discussions at the conference focused on improving operational responses, strengthening training frameworks, and adapting to evolving security challenges.
He said the outcomes were geared towards building a more agile, combat-ready, technologically advanced, and mission-oriented force.
On capability enhancement, Shaibu disclosed that the acquisition of additional tactical drones and the reconfiguration of aviation assets had improved intelligence gathering, precision targeting, operational mobility, and casualty evacuation in theatres of operation. He also highlighted progress in recruitment, training, professional military education, and leadership development, stressing that discipline, competence, and meritocracy remained essential to institutional integrity.
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Reaffirming his “soldier-first” philosophy, the COAS directed commanders to prioritise troop welfare, including prompt payment of entitlements, improved healthcare, educational support, and enhanced welfare packages for personnel and their families.
He stressed that motivated troops operating in conducive environments were critical to mission success.
Shaibu urged participants to translate conference resolutions into measurable operational outcomes, warning that the success of the conference would depend on implementation in the field.
The event also featured the presentation of commendation plaques to senior officers who completed their tours of duty, as well as the unveiling of the Nigerian Army Heritage and Feature Centre insignia.
He described soldiers as the greatest and most valuable assets of the Nigerian Army,saying their sacrifice, discipline and courage, form the bedrock of the Nigerian Army operational effectiveness and success in protecting the territorial integrity of the nation.
Shaibu, while noting that the value of the conference would ultimately be judged not by presentations alone, but by the implementation of its resolutions across all levels of command.
“It is evident that a well-motivated soldier operating in a conducive environment will undoubtedly demonstrate higher morale, loyalty and effectiveness.
