COAS charges restore hope IX graduates to deliver battlefield wins amid Nigeria’s security challenges
Abdullateef Fowewe
Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, Chief of Army Staff (COAS), has tasked graduates of Exercise Restore Hope IX to convert their rigorous training into real-world victories as they deploy to combat Nigeria’s escalating security threats across multiple theatres.
This was obtained in a statement on Friday by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele.
Speaking at the Final Exercise and Graduation Ceremony at the Nigerian Army Training Camp in Kachia, Kaduna State, today, the COAS underscored the pillars of modern warfare.
“Combat excellence, discipline, adaptability and teamwork are essential requirements for success in modern warfare,” he said.
Lt. Gen. Shaibu hailed Exercise Restore Hope as a cornerstone of the Nigerian Army’s transformation drive.
He explained it builds “a professional, resilient and mission-oriented force capable of operating effectively within joint and multi-agency environments.”
The advanced infantry program honed participants’ marksmanship, physical endurance, combat medical skills, and mental toughness for high-intensity operations.
The Army Chief also emphasised ethical standards on the battlefield.
“Battlefield success must be anchored on professionalism, respect for human rights and accountability,” he stated, adding that such conduct is crucial for sustaining public trust and mission legitimacy.
Earlier, Major General VU Okoro, Chief of Training (Army), highlighted the exercise’s enduring value.
He described it, now in its ninth edition, as “one of the Nigerian Army’s most important post-basic training platforms for sharpening combat skills, building resilience and preparing soldiers for contemporary operational realities.”
Lt. Gen. Shaibu praised the instructors for upholding top standards, noting that alumni from prior Restore Hope exercises have excelled in active operations.
He officially closed Exercise Restore Hope IX, congratulated the graduates, and approved immediate promotions and decorations for seven standout instructors.
