The Nigerian Army is pursuing structured collaboration with the financial sector to stabilise personnel welfare systems, improve administrative efficiency and reinforce the economic foundations that underpin national security operations.
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, emphasised that a secure environment enables financial institutions and economic actors to operate sustainably, while stable banking systems, in turn, support troops’ welfare, logistics management and institutional resilience.
The COAS outlined this approach while receiving the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of FirstBank of Nigeria, Olusegun Alebiosu, at Army Headquarters, according to a statement issued by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele.
“Beyond combat operations, the Army is seeking partnerships that enhance salary administration, pension access, decentralised logistics payments, and financial inclusion for personnel deployed in remote theatres,” the COAS said.
“Reliable banking structures contribute directly to morale and operational effectiveness.”
The engagement reflects broader recognition that modern military effectiveness extends beyond kinetic capability to include predictable financial systems, welfare guarantees, and digital administrative coordination. Encouraging personnel to utilise established financial institutions is seen as a measure to safeguard savings and ensure stability within the ranks.
Also Read: Nigerian Leader Reaffirms Commitment to Military Welfare
In his remarks, Mr Alebiosu reaffirmed FirstBank’s commitment to supporting operational efficiency by expanding financial access for pensioners and personnel stationed in remote locations. He noted that improving banking reach in conflict-affected zones could reduce cash vulnerabilities and streamline welfare disbursement processes.
Nigeria’s security operations span multiple regions, often requiring decentralised logistics, rapid disbursement systems, and structured pension administration for retired personnel. Collaboration with the financial sector, therefore, intersects directly with force sustainability and morale management.
“If institutionalised effectively, structured Army–financial sector partnerships may enhance administrative predictability, strengthen troop welfare architecture, and reinforce the economic-security nexus central to long-term national stability.”