The Chief of Army Staff, COAS, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu has moved to reinforce strategic trust and cooperation at the highest levels as he undertook courtesy visits to former Heads of State and the Niger State Government.
He reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to enhanced security, operational readiness, and sustained collaboration.
According to a statement by the Acting Director Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the COAS visited former Heads of State, General Ibrahim Babangida and General Abdulsalami Abubakar, as well as Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, to brief them on ongoing reforms and security efforts.
During the engagements, Lieutenant General Shaibu outlined initiatives aimed at strengthening training, doctrine, and operational effectiveness across Army formations.
He explained that coordinated exercises across training institutions are focused on delivering practical, mission-oriented preparation for troops while also assessing unit readiness and identifying areas requiring reinforcement or new deployments.
The Army Chief highlighted Niger State’s strategic significance, noting its vast landmass and operational relevance to national security.
He also referenced recent operational assessments at the 31st, 11th, and 18th Brigades in Bida, conducted to address emerging security challenges and close identified capability gaps.
“We are consolidating all available resources and leveraging technology to address security challenges effectively. Niger State holds a special place in our history and is regarded in many ways as home,” he said.
In their responses, former Heads of State, General Ibrahim Babangida and General Abdulsalami Abubakar, congratulated the COAS on his assumption of duty and commended the Nigerian Army for sustaining professionalism and operational excellence.
They offered prayers and goodwill for wisdom, courage, and success as he leads the Army through evolving security threats.
Representing Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, the Deputy Governor of Niger State, Dr Yakubu Garba, welcomed the COAS and praised the Army’s proactive role in supporting internal security operations.
He acknowledged the security challenges confronting the state and expressed confidence that strengthened collaboration with the Nigerian Army would restore stability.
“We are confident that, with the partnership of the Nigerian Army, we will overcome current challenges and protect lives and communities,” he said.
The visits underscored the Nigerian Army’s emphasis on strategic engagement, institutional continuity, and cooperative security as it deepens partnerships with political leaders and senior statesmen in pursuit of national stability.