..says operational posture boosted, new task forces established
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt-Gen. Waidi Shaibu has described the nation’s security environment as “Complex and dynamic,” necessitating ongoing strengthening of “Our operational posture through sustained deployments, reconfiguration of formations, and the establishment of new units and task forces in critical areas.”
The Army Chief made the position on Monday during the first COAS Bi-Annual conference in Abuja, which brought together Principal Staff Officers (PSOs), Corps Commanders, Theatre and Force Commanders, General Officers Commanding, among other senior commanders.
In his opening remarks, the 25th COAS highlighted that the conference remains a critical decision-making platform for review of the Service’s activities in the first half of the year, and to articulate a clear strategic direction going forward.
Reiterating his “soldier-first” concept, Shaibu urged commanders to actively engage troops under their commands, ensuring they remain motivated, well-prepared, and mission-ready.”
He noted that the ongoing counterterrorism and counterinsurgency operations across theatres underscored the complexity of the security situation in the country.
His words, “Nigeria’s security environment remains complex and dynamic. In the North-East, remnants of Boko Haram and ISWAP continue to pose threats through sporadic attacks and the use of improvised explosive devices.
“In the North-West and parts of the North-Central, banditry, kidnapping, and communal violence persist.
“The South-East faces secessionist-related violence and criminality, while the South-South contends with crude oil theft and economic sabotage.
“The South-West also records isolated incidents of violent crime.”
He added that, “these realities underscore the need for a highly professional, agile, and responsive Nigerian Army.”
“Accordingly, we have enhanced our operational posture through sustained deployments, reconfiguration of formations, and the establishment of new units and task forces in critical areas”, the COAS stated.
On the need to maintain professionalism in the Force, he urged “all commanders to actively engage their troops, ensuring they remain motivated, well-prepared, and mission-ready.
“As leaders, we must embody decisiveness, resilience, empathy, and unwavering commitment, setting the example for others to follow.”
In his welcome address, the Chief of Policy and Plans (COPP), Maj.-Gen. Bamidele Alabi said the conference was designed to provide adequate time for the effective implementation of decisions and directives emanating from each conference, thereby enhancing operational effectiveness and impact across our theatres of operation.
