Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Waidi Shaibu, on Tuesday paid courtesy visits to former Heads of State, Ibrahim Babangida and Abdulsalami Abubakar, as well as the Niger State Government, reaffirming the Nigerian Army’s commitment to improving national security and operational effectiveness.
A statement by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, said the Army Chief briefed the elder statesmen and state authorities on ongoing initiatives aimed at strengthening training, doctrine and operational readiness across Army formations.
According to the statement, Lt. Gen. Shaibu highlighted several exercises currently underway across Army training institutions, designed to provide realistic, practical and mission-oriented training for personnel. He explained that the exercises also serve to assess the operational posture of combat units and identify gaps requiring additional manpower, equipment or new formations.
Speaking on the security situation in Niger State, the COAS emphasised the strategic importance of the state, citing its vast landmass and unique security challenges. He said the Army was consolidating available resources and leveraging technology to respond effectively to emerging threats.
“We are consolidating all available resources and leveraging technology to address security challenges effectively. Niger State holds a special place in our history; I previously served here as a Training and Doctrine Commander, and many of my colleagues also share a deep connection with this state,” Shaibu said.
The Army Chief disclosed that he had undertaken operational visits to the 31st, 11th and 18th Brigades in Bida, where he assessed operational gaps and directed the provision of critical resources to address recent security challenges in parts of the state.
In their separate remarks, former Heads of State, Babangida and Abubakar, commended the COAS for his leadership, professionalism and strategic vision, congratulating him on his appointment and offering prayers for wisdom and success.
Meanwhile, Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, represented by his deputy, Dr Yakubu Garba, praised the Nigerian Army’s proactive role in addressing security concerns and expressed confidence that sustained collaboration would help restore peace and stability across the state.
Linus Aleke, Abuja
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