Tinubu Pledges Enhanced Welfare, Operational Effectiveness Of Nigerian Armed Forces
By Anne Osemekeh, Abuja
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has reaffirmed his administration’s firm commitment to the welfare, professionalism and operational effectiveness of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
The President made the pledge at the opening of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Annual Conference 2025 in Lagos.
Speaking at the ceremony, President Tinubu who was represented by the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, paid tribute to serving and retired senior military officers, noting that their sacrifices, leadership and institutional memory have continued to shape the Nigerian Army. He described the presence of elder statesmen and former Service Chiefs as a reflection of the enduring heritage, professionalism and fighting spirit of the Armed Forces.
The President commended officers and soldiers who place national duty above personal comfort, stressing that their sacrifices in defence of Nigeria’s sovereignty and unity remain permanently etched in the nation’s history. He noted that the annual conference provides an important platform for reflection, strategic review and continuous improvement in training, administration and operations, particularly amid evolving security challenges.
Also speaking, the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (Rtd), described the conference as a crucial forum for reviewing operational posture, assessing readiness and aligning the Army’s future direction with national security priorities. He praised the resilience and professionalism of Army personnel and acknowledged the contributions of past Service Chiefs and senior officers, both serving and retired.
The Defence Minister emphasized the need for joint operations, inter-agency cooperation and a whole-of-society approach to addressing Nigeria’s complex security environment. He urged senior commanders to ensure that conference deliberations translate into practical operational outcomes.
In his welcome address, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, expressed appreciation to the President for sustained political will and strategic support to the Nigerian Army, particularly in personnel welfare, equipment modernization, training and institutional reforms. He also acknowledged the legislative and budgetary backing of the National Assembly, which he said has enhanced operational readiness across all theatres.
The COAS reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to combating terrorism, insurgency, banditry and other criminal threats, adding that the force is transforming into a more professional, adaptive and technology-driven institution capable of countering both conventional and asymmetric challenges. He urged participants to be guided by patriotism and professionalism in their deliberations.
Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, described security as fundamental to development and commended the Nigerian Army for its role in preserving national unity and democratic governance. He particularly lauded Headquarters 81 Division, Nigerian Army, for its contributions to peace and stability in Lagos State, assuring continued state government support.
The ceremony attracted senior government officials, Service Chiefs, former Chiefs of Defence Staff and Chiefs of Army Staff, senior military officers serving and retired, heads of security agencies, diplomats and other distinguished guests.
The COAS Annual Conference 2025 is expected to deliberate on key operational, administrative and strategic issues aimed at further strengthening the Nigerian Army’s capacity to discharge its constitutional responsibilities.
