Army Chief Highlights Operational Readiness, Troop Welfare As Key To National Security

The army has identified operational effectiveness, manpower development, personnel welfare and sound administration as the key pillars driving its transformation into a more professional, adaptive and combat-ready force.

Speaking during an interactive session with media executives at the 163rd Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026 in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, said these priorities are strengthening the army’s ability to fulfil its constitutional responsibilities and support Nigeria’s national security objectives.

According to the army chief, recent operational successes have been driven by the support of the Tinubu administration that has provided critical resources to improve the military’s capacity in tackling emerging security threats.

He said ongoing joint operations involving other branches of the armed forces, security agencies and international partners have resulted in the neutralisation of terrorist elements, disruption of criminal networks and improved stability across several operational theatres.

He added that the acquisition of modern military equipment, including Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles, Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs), surveillance drones, armed unmanned aerial vehicles and the expansion of the aviation unit of the army has significantly improved operational reach and response capability.

Lieutenant General Shaibu also announced that the army has expanded its manpower development efforts by establishing two additional recruit training depots in Osogbo and Amasiri-Idda, complementing the existing depot in Zaria.

He said the move is aimed at producing more disciplined and combat-ready personnel to meet evolving security demands.

On troop welfare, he said the army has continued to invest in personnel well-being through the construction of new accommodation, subsidised education via Nigerian Army Command Schools, improved healthcare services and the implementation of the group life assurance scheme, which he said has benefited about 15,000 personnel.

Read also:

He added that enhanced welfare packages approved by the federal government are expected to boost morale and improve operational effectiveness.

The army chief further stressed that prudent resource management, transparency and accountability remain central to the institution’s reforms.

He noted that increased collaboration with indigenous defence manufacturers, including the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria, the Command Engineering Depot in Kaduna and the special vehicle plant in Bauchi, is strengthening local defence production, improving logistics and enhancing the army’s capacity to address current and future security challenges.