The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Tuesday paid courtesy visits to former Heads of State, Generals Ibrahim Babangida and Abdulsalami Abubakar, as well as the Niger State Government, reaffirming the Nigerian Army’s commitment to enhanced security and stronger collaboration nationwide.
During the visits, Gen. Shaibu assured national leaders and the Niger State Government of the Army’s resolve to improve operational effectiveness, deepen cooperation with state authorities and tackle emerging security threats.
In a statement, the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, said the COAS briefed the former leaders on ongoing reforms within the Nigerian Army, including efforts to strengthen training, doctrine and operational readiness across all formations.
According to the statement, the Army Chief explained that training exercises are currently ongoing in various institutions to ensure troops receive practical, mission-driven instruction, while also assessing combat units to identify operational gaps that may require additional personnel or new formations.
Speaking on Niger State, Gen. Shaibu described the state as strategically important due to its vast landmass, noting that the Army was deploying resources and technology to address security challenges.
“We are consolidating all available resources and leveraging technology to address security challenges effectively. Niger State holds a special place in our history and is regarded, in many ways, as home,” he said.
He also disclosed that he had visited the 31st, 11th and 18th Brigades in Bida to assess operational needs and deploy support to curb recent insecurity in the state.
Responding, Generals Babangida and Abdulsalami commended the COAS for his professionalism, dedication and vision, congratulating him on his appointment and offering prayers for wisdom and success as he leads the Army through current security challenges.
At the Niger State Government House, Deputy Governor Dr. Yakubu Garba, who represented Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, praised the Nigerian Army for its proactive role in supporting the state’s security architecture.
Garba acknowledged existing security challenges but expressed confidence that sustained collaboration with the Army would restore peace and stability across the state.
“With the partnership of the Nigerian Army, we are confident that we will overcome current challenges and protect lives and communities,” he said.
The visits underscore the Nigerian Army’s renewed push for operational excellence, inter-governmental collaboration and the safeguarding of national security.
