Nigerian Army Expands Formations Nationwide, Honours Fallen Heroes at COAS Conference
The Nigerian Army has announced plans to expand its operational formations across the country as part of efforts to strengthen national security and improve operational effectiveness.
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, disclosed this on Sunday during the opening ceremony of the 2026 First Bi-Annual COAS Conference held at the Nigerian Army Conference Centre and Suites in Abuja.
In a solemn moment during the event, the Army Chief presented Nigerian Army Personnel Insurance cheques to families of fallen soldiers and troops wounded in action, reaffirming the Army’s commitment to the welfare of its personnel and the families of those who paid the ultimate price in service to the nation.
The gesture underscored the Army’s resolve to honour the sacrifices of fallen heroes while supporting wounded personnel whose courage, the COAS said, continues to inspire the nation.
Speaking at the conference, Lieutenant General Shaibu described the gathering as a strategic platform to assess ongoing military operations, review achievements recorded in the first half of 2026 and develop strategies for the remaining part of the year.
He stressed that operational readiness, emerging security threats and improved effectiveness across all theatres of operation would dominate discussions during the conference.
The COAS commended officers and soldiers for their resilience, gallantry and professionalism in tackling insurgency, banditry and other security challenges confronting the country.
He paid tribute to fallen troops, describing their sacrifices as the foundation of Nigeria’s unity and peace.
Reaffirming his “Soldier First Concept,” the Army Chief said troop welfare, morale, training and empowerment remain central to sustaining combat effectiveness. He urged commanders at all levels to maintain close engagement with personnel to boost morale and operational readiness.
Lieutenant General Shaibu also revealed that the Nigerian Army is increasing recruitment efforts, improving infrastructure, enhancing welfare packages and upgrading healthcare services for personnel.
According to him, prompt medical evacuation arrangements both within and outside Nigeria remain a critical aspect of troop support.
The Army Chief further emphasised the need to strengthen civil-military relations, noting that public support remains essential in ongoing military operations.
He said the Nigerian Army would continue to implement people-oriented programmes alongside kinetic operations to build trust and stability in affected communities.
Lieutenant General Shaibu also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support to the military, particularly in the acquisition of modern equipment, refurbishment of operational platforms and enhancement of operational capabilities.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Major General Bamidele Alabi, said the conference would consolidate operational gains recorded so far and provide strategic direction for the remainder of the year.
He commended troops for their dedication in counter-insurgency and anti-banditry operations nationwide and urged participants to contribute meaningfully to discussions aimed at improving the Army’s capacity to tackle evolving security challenges.
The conference is expected to continue with high-level deliberations focused on enhancing the Nigerian Army’s operational efficiency while sustaining its commitment to personnel welfare and national security.
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