Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has announced a major overhaul of the Nigerian Army to address rising security threats and evolving warfare challenges.
Speaking at the closing of the 2025 Chief of Army Staff Annual Conference at NEBO Hall, Abalti Barracks, Lagos, Shaibu described Nigeria’s security environment as “increasingly complex,” citing regional instability, global shifts in warfare, and emerging internal threats.
He unveiled a “radical but informed” restructuring of the Army’s training and operational systems to strengthen intelligence, surveillance, cyber operations, and expand the roles of Special Forces and Army Aviation. The Army Headquarters Training Department will review curricula across all Army schools to align training with modern combat needs, prioritizing mission-specific instruction and aviation capabilities.
“Our intelligence briefings and operational updates confirm the need for enhanced capabilities in intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, reconnaissance, and cyber operations”, Shaibu said, stressing continuous innovation and realistic training.
He also highlighted the importance of federal support for equipment and technology upgrades, digital integration across commands, and collaboration with political leadership for military hardware and software procurement.
The COAS commended senior commanders, reaffirmed the Army’s loyalty to President Bola Tinubu and the Constitution, and honored officers for their distinguished service, noting their contributions to strengthening operational, administrative, and strategic capacities.
About the Author
