COAS urges new officers to stay combat-ready

Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), has addressed newly commissioned officers from the Direct Short Service Course (DSSC) 29/2026 at the Nigerian Army School of Infantry in Jaji, Kaduna State. Shaibu emphasized the need for the officers to maintain operational readiness and provide decisive leadership as the Nigerian Army expands its manpower and force structure.

The COAS highlighted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's approval for the Army's transformation, which includes expanding from eight to 12 divisions and recruiting an additional 28,000 soldiers. Shaibu stressed that increased manpower alone is not sufficient for enhanced operational readiness and combat capability; competent leadership is crucial to make sound and timely decisions, especially under demanding operational conditions.

He urged the officers to lead by example, prioritize mission accomplishment and troop welfare over personal interests, and maintain their combat-readiness regardless of their professional specializations. The COAS also emphasized the importance of continuous tactical competence development, physical fitness, and professional pursuit of emerging technologies.

Shaibu stressed the significance of joint operations and inter-agency cooperation in addressing Nigeria's complex security challenges and urged the officers to maintain effective professional relationships with various stakeholders. The commissioning of the DSSC 29/2026 officers concluded a six-month intensive military training program, adding a new cadre of professionally trained officers to the Nigerian Army's expanding force.

Shaibu urged the newly commissioned officers to justify the nation's investment in their training by demonstrating competence, discipline, loyalty, and dedicated service. He reminded them to leave Jaji prepared to accept responsibility, provide solutions, and lead with courage, fairness, and professionalism as the Nigerian Army strengthens its capacity to respond to contemporary and emerging security threats.