ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has said the ongoing expansion of the Nigerian Army through the creation of new brigades, formations and units, as well as the recruitment of thousands of additional soldiers, will significantly strengthen the Army’s operational capacity and enhance its ability to respond to the country’s evolving security threats.
Speaking on Sunday during the interdenominational church service marking the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) at the All Saints Protestant Church, Mogadishu Cantonment, Abuja, the Army Chief said the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s determination to address Nigeria’s persistent security challenges.
Shaibu, who was represented by the Commander, Army Headquarters Garrison, Major General W.N. Dangana, said the military expansion followed the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to increase recruitment into the Nigerian Army.
“In furtherance of the Federal Government’s efforts to address the nation’s security challenges, the Nigerian Army has witnessed a significant increase in recruitment as directed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“We are committed to ensuring that these young Nigerians are adequately trained, properly equipped and professionally developed to meet the demands of military service and contribute meaningfully to national security,” he said.
The COAS noted that troops remain actively engaged in combating terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, oil theft and other criminal activities across different parts of the country.
Despite the complex security environment, he said the Army has continued to record remarkable operational successes.
READ ALSO: Headquarters 1Division Nigerian Army
“Through the dedication, courage and professionalism of our officers and soldiers, several criminal elements have been neutralised, terrorist enclaves dismantled, hostages rescued and normalcy restored to affected communities.
“These successes have been achieved through the collective efforts of our personnel working in collaboration with sister services, other security agencies and relevant stakeholders,” he added.
Shaibu also commended officers and soldiers for their unwavering loyalty, discipline and dedication, stressing that his leadership philosophy is centred on transforming the Nigerian Army into a more professional, adaptable, combat-ready and resilient force capable of effectively operating within a joint multi-agency environment.
According to him, leadership, professionalism, operational effectiveness and troop welfare remain the pillars of that philosophy.
He said the Army’s “Soldier First” culture recognises personnel as its greatest asset and has informed several welfare initiatives.
“As Chief of Army Staff, my command philosophy, which aims to transform the Nigerian Army into a more professional, adaptable, combat-ready and resilient force capable of decisively discharging its responsibilities within a joint multi-agency environment, places a premium on leadership, professionalism, operational effectiveness and the welfare of our personnel.
“Central to this philosophy is the ‘Soldier First’ culture, which recognises that our personnel remain the Nigerian Army’s most valuable asset.
“Accordingly, we have continued to prioritise troop welfare by improving accommodation, healthcare services, training opportunities, educational support and other welfare initiatives.
“We remain committed to creating an environment where every officer and soldier can serve with dignity, confidence and pride while their families receive the support they deserve,” he said.
The Army Chief described the church service as an opportunity to appreciate God for the institution’s journey, celebrate its achievements, honour fallen heroes and reaffirm the Army’s commitment to national service.
“It is also a moment to appreciate the sacrifices and dedication of our personnel who continue to serve with courage and professionalism in various operational theatres across the country,” he said.
Reflecting on the Army’s history, Shaibu said the Nigerian Army has, for 163 years, remained a symbol of patriotism, resilience, sacrifice and unwavering commitment to national service.
According to him, the institution has consistently adapted to emerging security challenges while remaining committed to its constitutional responsibility of defending Nigeria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
He explained that the theme of this year’s Nigerian Army Day Celebration, “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army,” reinforces the military’s constitutional obligation to safeguard both the nation and its citizens.
“This theme is a clarion call for introspection, renewal and rededication. It reminds us that our primary constitutional mandate is deeply intertwined with the safety, prosperity and trust of the Nigerian people we have sworn to protect,” he said.
Paying tribute to personnel who died in active service, the COAS described their sacrifices as a lasting inspiration to serving officers and soldiers.
“As we celebrate our achievements, we must never forget the gallant officers and soldiers who paid the supreme sacrifice in defence of our nation. Their courage, patriotism and selfless service remain a source of inspiration to us all.
“We honour their memory and pray for the peaceful repose of their souls. We also recognise the sacrifices of our wounded personnel and veterans whose contributions to national security continue to inspire future generations of Nigerian soldiers,” he stated.
Shaibu also thanked the families of military personnel for their steadfast support, acknowledging their sacrifices as a vital pillar of the Army’s operational success.
“I equally wish to express my profound appreciation to the families of our personnel. Your unwavering support, patience, understanding and sacrifices constitute a critical pillar of our operational success. The Nigerian Army remains grateful for your enduring commitment and resilience,” he added.
Among dignitaries present at the church service were the Minister of Defence, represented by Major General Henry Tafida Wesley (Rtd.); the Chief of Defence Staff, represented by Major General Osenwegie; senior military officers; and other invited guests.