COAS stresses leadership, training as pillars of security
Abdullateef Fowewe
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, reaffirmed that strong leadership and continuous training remain the cornerstones of the Nigerian Army’s operational effectiveness.
A statement on Thursday by Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director Army Public Relations revealed that the COAS mentioned this during his operational tour of the 1 Division Area of Responsibility in Kaduna.
Addressing officers after an operational briefing, General Shaibu emphasised that “leadership remains the most decisive factor in tackling insecurity,” urging officers to be “exemplary figures whom soldiers can confidently rely on.”
He stressed that “leading troops in battle is a core responsibility of every officer,” calling for “unflinching dedication, loyalty and purposeful leadership on and off the battlefield.”
In a separate address to soldiers on parade, the Army Chief charged troops to “obey and trust their commanders,” highlighting that “loyalty, discipline and commitment” are essential to executing their constitutional duties effectively.
General Shaibu also underscored the value of training, describing it as the “best gift” the army offers its personnel, encouraging soldiers to “take full advantage of courses provided by Nigerian Army training schools and divisional institutions” to boost their skills and development.
The visit also featured the commissioning of a newly built soldiers’ canteen at the Division Headquarters, reflecting the COAS’s commitment to improving welfare.
This operational tour marks his first to the 1 Division since assuming office.
