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The Nigerian Army's Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, says the strategic expansion of the Army will strengthen its operational capacity and improve its response to the nation's security challenges. Shaibu made this known during the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) at the All Saints Protestant Church, Mogadishu Cantonment, Abuja.

Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu has been the Chief of Army Staff since his appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. This appointment marked a significant shift in the Army's leadership, following the previous leadership under General Ibrahim Attahiru. The new COAS has outlined his vision for the Army, focusing on transforming it into a more professional, adaptable, combat-ready, and resilient force.

The strategic expansion of the Army involves the establishment of new brigades, formations, and units, alongside the recruitment of thousands of additional soldiers. Shaibu stated that these new troops will be trained and equipped to meet the demands of military service. He emphasized that the Army remains committed to ensuring that the young Nigerians recruited are adequately trained, properly equipped, and professionally developed.

Shaibu noted that the Army has continued to record notable achievements across various theatres of operation. Despite the complexity of the security challenges, the Nigerian Army has been able to neutralise several criminal elements, dismantle terrorist enclaves, rescue hostages, and restore normalcy to affected communities. This success has been achieved through the collective efforts of the Army personnel working in collaboration with sister services, other security agencies, and relevant stakeholders.

The COAS commended officers and soldiers for their loyalty, discipline, and commitment. He also paid tribute to officers and soldiers who lost their lives in the line of duty, describing their sacrifice as a lasting source of inspiration.

The theme of this year's Nigerian Army Day Celebration, 'Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army,' underscores the military's constitutional responsibility to safeguard the nation's security and the welfare of its citizens. This theme serves as a clarion call for introspection, renewal, and rededication, reminding the Army that its primary constitutional mandate is deeply intertwined with the safety, prosperity, and trust of the Nigerian people.

Key Facts

  • The Nigerian Army has been expanding its capacity through the establishment of new brigades, formations, and units.
  • Thousands of additional soldiers are being recruited to strengthen the Army's operational capacity.
  • The Army has recorded notable achievements across various theatres of operation, including neutralising criminal elements and restoring normalcy to affected communities.
  • The COAS has outlined his vision for the Army, focusing on transforming it into a more professional, adaptable, combat-ready, and resilient force.
  • The theme of this year's Nigerian Army Day Celebration highlights the military's constitutional responsibility to safeguard the nation's security and the welfare of its citizens.

The Nigerian Army Day Celebration marks an important occasion for the military, serving as a chance to reflect on its journey, celebrate its achievements, honour fallen heroes, and renew its commitment to national service. As the country continues to grapple with various security challenges, the Army's expansion and improved operational capacity are seen as crucial steps towards addressing these challenges effectively.