The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has announced plans for enhanced troop deployments and the integration of modern surveillance technology to reinforce security across Niger State.
​During a courtesy visit to the Etsu Nupe and Chairman of the Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, His Royal Highness Alhaji Dr. Yahaya Abubakar, on Wednesday, the COAS detailed a strategic shift toward intelligence-driven operations to address emerging threats.
​Operational Assessment and Reinforcement
​According to a statement by the acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele and made availabletoChannelNetworkAfrique, CNA, the visit was part of a broader on-the-spot assessment of military deployments in the region. General Shaibu identified specific operational gaps that require the infusion of additional troops and specialized combat enablers.
​The COAS emphasized that the Nigerian Army is pivoting toward a more proactive strategy, which includes:
​Modern Surveillance: Leveraging technology to improve situational awareness and response times.
​Combat Enablers: Deploying specific resources to bridge existing capability gaps within the state.
​Human Intelligence: Strengthening community-based intelligence networks to support tactical movements.
​Collaboration with Traditional Institutions
​General Shaibu described traditional rulers as “indispensable allies,” stressing that their roles are critical for providing the timely and actionable information needed to sustain successful military efforts. He commended the Etsu Nupe for his consistent support of personnel stationed within the Nupe Kingdom.
​Royal Support for Military Mandate
​In his response, the Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Dr. Yahaya Abubakar, pledged the continued cooperation of the traditional council. He lauded the professionalism and conduct of the Nigerian Army personnel operating in his domain, noting their positive relationship with local communities.
​The monarch assured the COAS of sustained intelligence sharing and prayers for the success of the military’s mission to restore lasting peace to the state.
​The COAS concluded the visit by reaffirming the Army’s resolution to protect lives and property through close partnership with state governments and local stakeholders.
