African armies must unite against terrorism, insecurity – COAS

The Chief of Army Staff, COAS, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has emphasised the need for closer cooperation among African militaries in confronting terrorism, insurgency and other cross-border security threats affecting the continent.

Shaibu made the appeal during the Third African Land Forces Forum, organised as part of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration, NADCEL, 2026 in Port Harcourt.

The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Col. Appolonia Anele.

According to the statement, the COAS received army chiefs and defence representatives from 17 African nations participating in the forum, noting that their attendance underscored a collective resolve to strengthen continental unity, improve regional security and foster sustainable peace across Africa.

Shaibu explained that incorporating the forum into NADCEL 2026 created an avenue not only to honour the legacy of the Nigerian Army but also to reinforce military partnerships among African countries.

Reflecting on the history of the Nigerian Army, he noted that the force, which began in 1863 as the Glover Hausas, had grown into one of the continent’s most formidable land forces.

He described the forum as an initiative established to encourage dialogue, cooperation and the exchange of operational experiences among African armies.

According to him, the platform is aimed at enhancing interoperability, building long-term strategic alliances and developing joint approaches to addressing common security concerns.

The army chief observed that security threats across Africa had become increasingly sophisticated and transnational, making regional collaboration essential.

Drawing from Nigeria’s experiences in counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency campaigns, Shaibu stressed the value of flexible operational strategies, effective deployment of air power, rigorous troop training and sustained regional partnerships.

He further highlighted the role of the Multinational Joint Task Force, saying it had played a critical part in weakening insurgent groups and recovering territories within the Lake Chad Basin.

Shaibu added that the forum would feature exhibitions showcasing advanced defence technologies, locally developed innovations and military hardware.

He said the exhibitions were expected to encourage capacity development, facilitate knowledge sharing and strengthen strategic cooperation among participating nations.

The COAS urged delegates to take full advantage of the forum by engaging in meaningful discussions and collaborative efforts geared toward improving Africa’s collective security architecture.

He expressed optimism that the gathering would yield practical solutions capable of promoting peace, stability and security across the continent.