The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has paid courtesy visits to former Heads of State, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida and Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, as well as the Niger State Government, as part of efforts to deepen civil–military relations and strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture.
The high-level engagements, which took place on Tuesday in Minna, highlighted the Nigerian Army’s commitment to operational excellence, enhanced security, and closer collaboration with political leaders and sub-national governments in addressing evolving security challenges.
During the visits, Shaibu briefed the elder statesmen and state officials on ongoing initiatives aimed at strengthening training, doctrine and operational readiness across Army formations nationwide.
He explained that the series of exercises currently ongoing in Army training institutions are designed to provide practical, mission-oriented training for personnel, while also assessing the operational readiness of combat units.
According to the Army chief, the exercises help to identify operational gaps that may require reinforcement through the deployment of additional troops or the establishment of new formations.
Shaibu emphasised the strategic importance of Niger State, describing it as a critical security corridor due to its vast landmass and geographical location.
“We are consolidating all available resources and leveraging technology to address security challenges effectively. Niger State holds a special place in our history. I have previously served here as a Training and Doctrine Commander, and many of my colleagues also share strong ties with the state. In many ways, it is regarded as home,” he said.
The COAS also disclosed that he conducted operational visits to the 31st, 11th and 18th Brigades in Bida to assess operational gaps and provide the necessary support to address recent security concerns in parts of the state.
He noted that the visits were aimed at ensuring that formations on the ground are adequately equipped and properly positioned to respond swiftly and decisively to emerging threats.
In their remarks, Babangida and Abdulsalami welcomed the Army chief and commended his leadership style, describing him as a professional officer with deep operational experience and a clear vision for the Nigerian Army.
They praised the Army for maintaining high standards of professionalism despite the complex security environment and congratulated Shaibu on his appointment, offering prayers for wisdom, courage and sustained success as he leads the Army through contemporary security challenges.
