The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, conducted a high-level working visit to Niger State on Tuesday, meeting with former Heads of State, General Ibrahim Babangida and General Abdulsalami Abubakar, to discuss national security and operational excellence.
During the visit, which included a courtesy call to Governor Muhammed Umaru Bago, the COAS reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with state governments and elder statesmen to tackle contemporary security challenges.
Briefing on Operational Readiness
In a statement signed by the acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele andmadeavailabletoChannelNetworkAfrique, CNA, Lieutenant General Shaibu detailed ongoing initiatives to modernize the Army’s training and doctrine. He noted that current field exercises across Army training institutions are designed to provide mission-oriented preparation for personnel.
The COAS explained that these evaluations are critical for identifying gaps in the field, determining where additional troops are needed, and assessing the necessity for establishing new military formations.
Strategic Focus on Niger State
Addressing the specific security dynamics of Niger State, General Shaibu emphasized the strategic importance of the state’s vast landmass.
”We are consolidating all available resources and leveraging technology to address security challenges effectively,” he stated. Reflecting on his previous tenure as a Training and Doctrine Commander in the state, he added, “Niger State holds a special place in our history… It is, in many ways, regarded as home.”
As part of his assessment, the COAS visited the 31st, 11th, and 18th Brigades in Bida. The visit aimed to identify resource gaps and deploy necessary assets to curb recent instances of insecurity within the region.
Support from Leadership
Former Heads of State, Generals Babangida and Abubakar, commended the COAS for his professional expertise and visionary leadership. They congratulated him on his assumption of duty and offered prayers for his success in navigating the nation’s security landscape.
Representing Governor Bago, Deputy Governor Dr. Yakubu Garba expressed the state’s appreciation for the Army’s proactive stance.
”We are confident that, with the partnership of the Nigerian Army, we will overcome current challenges and protect lives and communities,” Garba said.
The visit concludes a series of engagements aimed at aligning military strategy with local intelligence and national leadership guidance to ensure stability across the North-Central zone.