National security: COAS harps on innovation, strategic collaboration
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shu’aibu, has reiterated the need for innovation, professionalism, and strategic collaboration to address Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.
Shu’aibu, represented by the Commandant, Nigerian Defence Academy, Maj.-Gen. Oluyemi Olatoye, made the call at the opening of the Nigerian Army Combat Arms Training Week 2026 on Tuesday at the Jaji Military Cantonment in Kaduna State.
He said the long-standing tradition of the training week provided an opportunity to reflect on the enduring values shaping the present and future of the Nigerian Army’s combat arms.
According to him, the event also serves as a platform to review critical issues affecting combat arms and corps, while fostering collaboration toward enhancing operational effectiveness.
The COAS noted that the 2026 edition, held in Jaji, had brought together experts, practitioners, and partners committed to strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture.
He expressed confidence that the gathering would generate fresh ideas to improve the Army’s operational effectiveness in a complex security environment.
Shu’aibu stressed the importance of adapting to evolving threats through innovation and the integration of modern defence technologies.
He urged personnel to embrace both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches guided by sound doctrine and professionalism.
The army chief also emphasised the need for stronger synergy between manpower and equipment, noting that operational effectiveness depended on both.
He reaffirmed his commitment to personnel welfare, including improvements in accommodation, healthcare, and family support.
Shu’aibu appreciated President Bola Tinubu for his continued support and guidance to the Nigerian Army.
In his remarks, Gov. Uba Sani of Kaduna State, represented by the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr Sule Shu’aibu, described the Nigerian Army as a reliable partner in tackling security challenges.
He said the ongoing efforts to reposition combat arms operations reflected professionalism and alignment with global best practices.
Sani noted that despite successes recorded against terrorism, insurgency, and banditry, insecurity still posed challenges to economic growth, investment, and infrastructure development.
He stressed the need for sustained collaboration between state security agencies and the Nigerian Army to address emerging threats.
The governor also paid tribute to fallen heroes who lost their lives in defence of the nation.
Earlier, the Commander, Infantry Corps, Maj.-Gen. Godwin Mutkut, said the training week was a vital platform for enhancing operational effectiveness and inter-corps cooperation.
Mutkut said the theme, “The Constitutional Role of the Nigerian Army in Support of Civil Authorities,” was timely given Nigeria’s current security realities.
He acknowledged challenges such as manpower limitations, equipment shortfalls, and logistical constraints, stressing the need for strategic planning and collaboration.
According to him, the event will also promote knowledge sharing, research, and professional development among personnel.
He commended the Chief of Army Staff for initiatives aimed at improving capacity, training, and operational readiness in the Nigerian Army.
Mutkut expressed optimism that the programme would produce actionable solutions to strengthen combat effectiveness.
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