Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.n Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s unshakable commitment to defending the nation and safeguarding its territorial integrity at all times.
In his Christmas message to troops on Thursday, Shaibu assured officers and soldiers that the Army would remain resolute in strengthening counterinsurgency operations, enhancing intelligence architecture and sustaining operational effectiveness across all theatres.
He said that under his leadership, the Nigerian Army would continue to prioritise professionalism and combat readiness through sound administration, improved personnel welfare, recognition of excellence, and an efficient reward and sanction system.
The Army Chief expressed gratitude to God for His continued grace upon the nation and the Armed Forces, extending goodwill to officers, soldiers, civilian staff and their families.
“Christmas offers us an opportunity for reflection, renewal of faith and thanksgiving. As we commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ, we are reminded of the virtues of love, sacrifice, compassion, peace and unity—values that resonate deeply with the ethos of the Nigerian Army,” Shaibu said.
He also paid tribute to fallen soldiers who paid the ultimate price in service to the nation, noting that their sacrifices would never be forgotten.
“Their memory lives on in our hearts, and we will continue to honour them by caring for their families and ensuring their sacrifices were not in vain,” he added.
Meanwhile, the COAS has directed commanders to secure and preserve all Nigerian Army landed properties nationwide. He gave the directive during the groundbreaking ceremony for Phase II of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Barracks in Asokoro, Abuja.
Shaibu also instructed Nigerian Army Properties Limited to ensure proper documentation, preservation and gazetting of all Army land titles and Certificates of Occupancy.
According to him, safeguarding Army lands is critical to future force expansion and the construction of additional barracks infrastructure as personnel strength continues to grow.
“It is imperative to project future force locations. Preserving Nigerian Army lands and infrastructure must therefore be treated as a strategic requirement,” he said.
President Bola Tinubu commissioned Phase I of the barracks on January 23, 2025, providing accommodation for 614 personnel, while Phase II, currently under construction, is expected to house 1,800 personnel upon completion.
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