The Nigerian Army has been named Africa’s Best National Army in Counter-Terrorism Operations for 2025 by African Security Watch, in recognition of its operational performance against insurgency and violent extremism.
The award was presented on July 23, 2026, at the 19th Africa Security Watch Conference and Awards ceremony held in Banjul, The Gambia, and later handed over to the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, at Army Headquarters in Abuja on July 29.
Major General Teriworie Gagariga, who received the award on behalf of the Army in Banjul, formally presented it to the COAS, marking what officials described as a significant continental endorsement of Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts.
In a statement, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, said the recognition was based on the Army’s “exceptional operational achievements, strategic leadership, and sustained commitment to combating terrorism and violent extremism.”
African Security Watch cited the Army’s performance in coordinated joint operations, intelligence-led campaigns, civil-military cooperation, and capacity development as key factors behind the award. These efforts, according to the organisation, have contributed to degrading terrorist networks and restoring stability in affected communities.
Reacting, Lieutenant General Shaibu described the award as a tribute to the sacrifices of Nigerian troops. “This recognition reflects the courage, professionalism, and dedication of our officers and soldiers, especially those who paid the supreme sacrifice in defence of our nation,” he said.
He added that the honour validates the Army’s evolving Counter-Terrorism and Counter-Insurgency (CTCOIN) strategy and reinforces its position as a model for addressing complex security threats across Africa.
Shaibu reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to strengthening intelligence-driven operations, enhancing inter-agency collaboration, improving training, and prioritising troop welfare.
The conference, held at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre in Banjul, brought together African leaders, security experts, and policymakers to discuss terrorism, organised crime, and regional security cooperation.
Other Nigerian security institutions were also recognised at the event, including the Nigeria Police Force, which received an award as the Most Outstanding National Police Force in Africa.
Analysts say the recognition comes at a critical time as Nigeria continues to confront security challenges, offering both validation of progress made and pressure to sustain operational gains.
