LAGOS – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has renewed his administration’s strategic commitment to enhancing the welfare, professionalism, and operational effectiveness of the Nigerian Armed Forces, framing it as a cornerstone of national security.
The President’s assurance was delivered today at the opening ceremony of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Annual Conference 2025, a pivotal strategic forum hosted in Lagos. Represented by Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, the President praised the enduring heritage and sacrifices of the nation’s military.
“This gathering of elder statesmen and former Service Chiefs is a testament to the enduring heritage, professionalism and fighting spirit of the Nigerian Armed Forces,” the President stated, honoring officers and soldiers whose sacrifices are “indelibly etched in the nation’s history.”
A Platform for Strategic Reflection and Adaptation
The President highlighted the conference’s critical role in facilitating “honest reflection, strategic evaluation and continuous improvement.” This comes at a time when the Army faces evolving global, regional, and domestic security challenges, including terrorism, insurgency, and banditry.
Echoing this sentiment, the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), described the event as vital for reviewing operational readiness and aligning the Army’s future with national security priorities. He emphasized a “whole-of-society approach” and urged commanders to ensure the conference yields “concrete operational actions and measurable results on the battlefield.”
Army Leadership Points to Institutional Support and Transformation
In his welcome address, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, expressed “profound appreciation” for the President’s sustained political will and support, particularly in areas of welfare, equipment modernization, and training. He also acknowledged the crucial legislative and budgetary backing from the National Assembly.
The COAS reaffirmed the Army’s frontline role in combating national security threats, stating the force is deliberately transforming into a “more professional, adaptive and technology-driven force” capable of addressing both conventional and asymmetric challenges.
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, underscored the military’s foundational role, describing security as a “fundamental prerequisite for development” and commending the Army for safeguarding democratic governance and national unity.
Conference to Deliberate on Key Strategic Issues
The opening ceremony was attended by a high-level assembly of senior government officials, serving and retired Service Chiefs, military officers, diplomats, and heads of security agencies. The conference is expected to deliberate on key operational, administrative, and strategic issues to further strengthen the Nigerian Army’s capacity to fulfill its constitutional duties.
The President’s renewed pledge of support and the conference’s strategic focus mark a significant moment for Nigeria’s armed forces, as the nation continues to navigate a complex and demanding security landscape.
