Ongoing Reforms Will Build Professional, Combat-Ready Armed Force, States COAS

Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, the Chief of Army Staff, has emphasized the Nigerian Army's dedication to the welfare of serving and retired personnel while progressing ongoing reforms to develop a more professional, adaptable, technologically equipped, and combat-ready force. During a meeting with the Executive Committee of Course 39 of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) United Welfare Association (UWA), Shaibu highlighted the importance of engaging retired officers and veterans, noting that their operational experience, professional knowledge, and leadership expertise remain vital to the Nigerian Army.

Shaibu pledged N25 million for the association's Emergency Health Fund to support the medical needs of its members, stressing that caring for former service members is a continued duty and a critical aspect of personnel welfare. In addition, the Army Chief discussed ongoing initiatives to expand the force structure to 12 divisions, integrate 28,000 recruits through regional training centers in Zaria, Osogbo, and Amasiri Edda, and implement a revised training curriculum with a stronger focus on marksmanship, physical fitness, and fieldcraft.

Furthermore, the Nigerian Army is working towards multi-domain operations by integrating space, cyber, and non-kinetic capabilities, as well as developing Army aviation and unmanned aerial systems. Air Vice Marshal Ibikunle Daramola (Rtd), President of the Course 39 NDA United Welfare Association, praised Shaibu for his efforts in strengthening the force structure and operational capabilities of the Nigerian Army while appreciating the Army's support in health insurance, emergency assistance, and capacity-building programs.