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Tag: COAS

  • North-West strikes: CDS, COAS task troops on sustained vigilance

    North-West strikes: CDS, COAS task troops on sustained vigilance

    The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, and the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has charged the troops of Joint Task Force Operation FANSAN YAMMA, a military operation against terrorists in the North-West, to maintain heightened vigilance during the festive period, warning that criminal elements often attempt to exploit such periods to undermine security.

    They gave the charge when he, alongside the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, paid an operational visit to the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force to celebrate Christmas with the troops.

    Their directives came amid ongoing joint airstrikes by the Nigerian and United States militaries against terrorists in the North-West.

    According to a statement by the Nigerian Army’s spokesperson, Colonel Apollonia Anele, on Saturday, the visit of the Service Chiefs to the theatre was aimed at boosting morale, appreciating the sacrifices of the troops, and reinforcing strategic directives for ongoing operations across the North-West.

    “Remain alert, proactive and disciplined at all times, strictly adhering to the rules of engagement and respect for human rights. Do not be swayed by false narratives or propaganda,” the CDS cautioned the troops.

    General Oluyede conveyed warm Yuletide greetings and commended the troops for their courage, discipline, and unwavering commitment to duty, especially at a time when many Nigerians were celebrating with their families.

    “While many Nigerians celebrate this season with their loved ones, you remain steadfast at your duty posts. With sweat on your temples and strength in your backs, you are the wall that never breaks and the hope that can never be shattered,” the CDS said.

    He praised the operational gains recorded under Operation FANSAN YAMMA, noting that the efforts of the troops have significantly contributed to restoring public confidence and stabilising the North West geopolitical zone and adjoining states. 

    The CDS urged sustained collaboration with other security agencies, federal and state authorities, as well as continuous engagement with local communities to consolidate peace.

    He reassured the troops that their welfare remains a top priority, stressing his commitment to improving living and working conditions, healthcare delivery, and support for families of personnel.

    On his part, the COAS urged the troops to remain security-conscious and uphold the highest standards of conduct.

    He described the Christmas luncheon they had with the troops as a long-standing tradition aimed at recognising the sacrifices, resilience and professionalism of troops deployed in operational theatres.

    “It gives me a deep sense of fulfilment to celebrate Christmas with you, our gallant troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, alongside the Chief of Defence Staff. 

    “While we make merry here, similar luncheons are ongoing across other operational theatres in the country,” the COAS said.

    General Shaibu noted that the Christmas season provides an opportunity for reflection, thanksgiving and remembrance of fallen heroes whose ultimate sacrifices continue to make Nigeria safer. 

    He assured the troops that the Nigerian Army would continue to honour its fallen personnel by supporting their families and upholding their legacy.

    The COAS reiterated his Command Philosophy of Transforming the Nigerian Army into a More Professional, Adaptable, Combat-Ready and Resilient Force, with strong emphasis on personnel welfare, rewards for excellence and operational readiness.

    The COAS urged the troops to celebrate responsibly, remain security-conscious and uphold the highest standards of conduct, while conveying the appreciation of the President and the gratitude of well-meaning Nigerians for their selfless service.

    Both Service Chiefs reaffirmed the commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to safeguarding the nation’s peace, unity and democratic stability, while wishing the troops a Merry Christmas and a peaceful and prosperous New Year 2026.

  • CDS, COAS celebrate Christmas with troops in Jos

    CDS, COAS celebrate Christmas with troops in Jos

    Gen. Oluremi Oluyede, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and Lt.-Gen. Waide Shaibu, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) have marked the Christmas celebration with troops of Joint Task Force-Operation Enduring Peace (JTF-OPEP) in Jos.

    Maj.-Gen. Umar Abubakar, the Commander, Armour Corps of the Nigerian Army, represented the duo at the event.

    The CDS commended the commitment and resilience of troops of JTF-OPEP towards ending insecurity in Plateau, some parts of Kaduna and Bauchi states.

    He further urged troops to remain vigilant, disciplined, and proactive, adding that criminal elements often seek to exploit festive periods to undermine peace and security.

    “Christmas is a season that embodies love, sacrifice, hope and renewal.

    Read Also: CAS boosts morale of frontline troops at Christmas

    “It offers an opportunity to reflect on shared humanity, collective responsibility, and the unwavering commitment to the peace, unity, and progress of the nation.

    “But we must not allow criminal elements take advantage of the joyous season to unleash mayhem on innocent citizens,” he said.

    The CDS called for stronger collaboration with other security agencies and positive engagement with local communities, adding that the people’s trust “is essential to achieving enduring peace.”

    He promised to continually prioritise the welfare of personnel and their families, assuring that efforts were ongoing towards improving the living and working conditions of troops.

    Similarly, the COAS also thanked the troops for their selfless sacrifices towards tackling all forms of security challenges in the country.

    He further reaffirmed the Nigerian army’s commitment to professionalism, combat readiness and personnel welfare, in line with his command philosophy.

    (NAN)

  • COAS pledges to address soldiers accommodation challenge 

    COAS pledges to address soldiers accommodation challenge 

    • …flags off Phase 2 of Bola Tinubu Barracks in Abuja

    The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has pledged to tackle accomodations challenge of the Nigerian Army personnel.

    The COAS made the pledged when he flagged off the construction of the Phase 2 of the Bola Tinubu Barracks in Asokoro, Abuja.

    He said the move was in line with his “Soldier First” concept, which prioritises the welfare and living conditions of troops.

    General Shaibu said the project marked a significant step toward sustainable housing solutions for Nigerian Army personnel.

    He noted that the initiative reflects a strategic shift from short-term interventions to long-term, sustainable solutions, and reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to addressing troops’ accommodation challenges across the country.

    According to a statement by the Army’s spokesperson, Colonel Apollonia Anele, the COAS said the foundation of Phase 2 of the project was laid following the successful commissioning of Phase 1 in January 2025, explaining that Phase 2 is an entirely new barracks, distinct from Phase 1 which was commissioned by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    Read Also: COAS to troops: Go after kidnappers, miscreants

    He noted that the project comes at a time when the Nigerian Army is intensifying efforts to address the acute accommodation challenges faced by its personnel, in line with its resolve to complete all ongoing residential projects while initiating new ones.

    “Upon completion, the barracks will provide secure and dignified accommodation for personnel and their families, enhance unit cohesion and strengthen the Army’s operational effectiveness,” he said. 

    The COAS said troops’ welfare and robust administration formed the foundation for building a professional and combat-ready force.

    General Shaibu thanked President Tinubu for his “relentless support and funding of the project”, and reaffirmed the unalloyed loyalty of the officers and men of the Nigerian Army to the Constitution.

  • Two impersonators of COAS arrested in Edo

    Two impersonators of COAS arrested in Edo

    Two people have been arrested by troops for allegedly impersonating the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi  Shaibu.

    The duo, who were nabbed in  Utesi, Ovia Southwest of Edo State are currently undergoing investigation before they would be handed over to the appropriate authorities for further action.

    Their arrest is contained in a statement by the Director Defence Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Michael Onoja.

    In the statement which highlighted the activities by the troops in the past weeks, Onoja also revealed that on December 3, two passengers with N9 million intended for payment of ransom for the release of six of their adopted children nabbed at a checkpoint in Kadage in Igabi council of Kaduna State.

    Troops, according to the   Defence Media Operations director, also killed several terrorists and recovered a large cache of arms and ammunition from them.  

      The troops also arrested criminals and terrorist collaborators,      rescued some kidnap victims during operations in five out of the six geopolitical zones of the country.

       Besides, they seized 652,000 litres of stolen crude, arrested five suspects and destroyed three illegal refining sites.

    In the Northeast,  many Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP/JAS) fighters were killed, weapons recovered, and three kidnap victims rescued.

    Also,  troops repelled an ISWAP attack on a Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Mairari, striking a blow to the group’s capability.

    According to the statement, terrorists tried to breach the base with two Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs), but were detected and neutralised.

    Read Also: APC confirms Plateau Gov Mutfwang’s defection from PDP

    “The operation led to multiple terrorist casualties and seized weapons, ammunition, and logistics,” the statement said.

    According to the statement, troops discovered and safely detonated an improvised explosive device (IED) along the Damboa–Komala axis, thereby ensuring the safety of commuters.

     They also intercepted a Lagos-registered vehicle along the Maiduguri–Bama Road conveying suspected logistics supplies for Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists and arrested two suspects.

    “Also, seven of their collaborators, informants, sympathisers and spies were arrested, while three kidnapped victims were rescued,” it said.

    In the Northwest, troops conducted offensive operations in Zurmi, Maradun, Maru and Bukkuyum Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Zamfara State; Kachia, Kaura and Igabi LGAs of Kaduna State; Sabon Birni and Isa LGAs of Sokoto State; Wasagu and Bagudo LGAs of Kebbi State; Malumfashi and Rafi LGAs of Katsina and Niger States.

    According to the statement, during December 12 to   17operations, troops killed several terrorists, arrested eight others, rescued four kidnap victims, and recovered weapons, vehicles, livestock, and other household items.

    The statement said that troops of Operation Enduring Peace conducted operations between December 13 and 18 in Bassa, Jos North, Riyom, Jos South, Mangu and Jos East of Plateau State, as well as Kaura, Sanga, Jema’a and Kafanchan LGAs of Kaduna State.   Several terrorists were neutralised, 16 suspects arrested, and 19 kidnap victims rescued.

    It said: “Similarly, troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE in Benue, Nasarawa and Taraba States between December 13 and 17, conducted several offensive operations to various kidnappers’ hideouts in Akwanga, Nasarawa Eggon, Awe and Obi LGAs of Nasarawa State as well as Apa, Otukpo, Guma, Ukum LGAs of Benue State.

    “They responded to distress calls on kidnapping activities in Takum, Wukari and Karim Lamido LGAs of Taraba State, as well as Lokoja, Ijumu, Kabba, Kogi, Ifelodun and Eru LGAs of Kogi and Kwara States, respectively. During the operations, troops arrested eight suspected kidnappers, while 43 kidnapped victims were rescued. Arms and ammunition, motorcycles and other items were also recovered.”

    On operations against oil theft, the statement said that in the Operation DELTA SAFE theatre, covering Bayelsa, Delta, Imo and Rivers states, troops foiled oil theft valued at over ₦15,697,975  during the week.

    It stated that during air and land operations conducted between December 13 and 17 in Yenagoa and Kolokuma/Opukuma LGAs of Bayelsa State, as well as Okrika and Oyigbo LGAs of Rivers State, troops arrested nine criminal suspects, including three suspected gunrunners found in possession of arms and ammunition. 

    On operations in the Southeast, the statement said troops of Operation UDOKA conducted offensive operations within the region and encountered Indigenous People of Biafra/ Eastern Security Network (IPOB/ESN) fighters.

    “ For instance, between December 12 and 15, troops arrested four suspected criminals in Ihiala, Ogbaru and Onitsha North LGAs of Anambra State,” the statement said.

  • COAS to troops: Go after kidnappers, miscreants

    COAS to troops: Go after kidnappers, miscreants

    Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has urged troops to remain resilient and pursue criminal elements wherever they may be hiding.

    General Shaibu gave the charge yesterday while addressing troops at Odugbo Barracks, Ibadan, during his maiden operational visit to the 2 Division Area of Responsibility (AOR).

    He said: “I have been thoroughly briefed on your operations and the remarkable successes you have recorded. I commend your efforts and urge you to sustain the momentum.

    “Go after kidnappers and other miscreants wherever they are,  whether in the bushes, forests or their hideouts, and ensure that these criminal activities are reduced to the barest minimum.”

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    According to a statement by the Army spokesperson, Colonel Apollonia Anele, the COAS commended the troops for their resilience, professionalism and operational effectiveness in confronting banditry, kidnapping and other criminal activities within the division’s AOR.

    General Shaibu reaffirmed his commitment to improving the welfare of personnel, explaining that he had approved the renovation of existing accommodation and the construction of new residential facilities within the barracks.

    He stressed that troops’ morale remains critical to operational success, adding that welfare is a top priority under his command philosophy.

    The COAS also urged personnel to properly maintain existing accommodation and facilities to ensure a conducive living and operational environment.

  • Go after kidnappers, miscreants wherever they are, COAS orders troops 

    Go after kidnappers, miscreants wherever they are, COAS orders troops 

    The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has charged troops to remain resilient and pursue criminal elements wherever they might be hiding. 

    General Shaibu gave the charge on Monday during his address to troops at Odugbo Barracks, Ibadan, on his maiden operational visit to the 2 Division Area of Responsibility (AOR).

    He said: “I have been thoroughly briefed on your operations and the remarkable successes you have recorded.I commend your efforts and urge you to sustain the momentum. 

    “Go after the kidnappers and other miscreants wherever they are, whether in the bushes, forests or their hideouts, ensure these criminal activities are reduced to the barest minimum.”

    According to a statement by Army spokesperson, Colonel Apollonia Anele, the COAS commended the troops for their resilience, professionalism and operational effectiveness in confronting banditry, kidnapping and other criminal activities within the AOR.

    The Army Chief reaffirmed his commitment to improving troops’ welfare, noting that he had granted approvals for the renovation of existing accommodation and the construction of new residential facilities within the barracks.

    He emphasised that troops’ morale remains critical to operational success, stressing that welfare continues to be a top priority of his command philosophy. 

    The COAS urged troops to properly maintain existing accommodation and facilities to ensure a conducive living and operational environment. 

  • Army inducts 3,391 new recruits as COAS emphasises discipline, patriotism

    Army inducts 3,391 new recruits as COAS emphasises discipline, patriotism

    The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has charged the 3,391 newly inducted soldiers to uphold the highest standards of discipline, professionalism, courage, and patriotism as they formally begin their military careers.

    General Shaibu gave the charge on Saturday during the Passing Out Parade (POP) of the 89 Regular Recruits Intake, in Osogbo, Osun State.

    The POP marked the first set of soldiers to graduate from Depot Nigerian Army, since its establishment in Osogbo, early this year. 

    According to a statement by Army’s spokesperson, Colonel Apollonia Anele, the COAS described the parade as a “historic milestone”, having been the first POP since the establishment of the training school in Osogbo.

    He charged the recruits, as the pioneer set, to bear a special responsibility for upholding the reputation of the institution.

    The COAS said, “This ceremony is historic as the first Passing Out Parade of Depot Nigerian Army, Osogbo. You are the pioneer set and you must wear this badge with pride. Conduct yourselves as worthy ambassadors of this institution throughout your careers.”

    General Shaibu said the recruits had joined the Army at a critical period when the country is faced with complex security challenges, and urged them to draw strength from their rigorous training and always act with hope for success rather than fear of failure when confronted with adversity.

    The Army Chief told the new soldiers that their induction into the Army carried immense responsibility, particularly in safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity and contributing to national security. 

    He reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to their welfare and professional development under his “Soldier First” command mantra, assuring them of sustained moral, physical and material support.

    The COAS commended the Commandant, officers, instructors and staff of Depot Nigerian Army, Osogbo, for their dedication in “moulding the recruits into disciplined and combat-ready soldiers.”

  • COAS: We’re transforming NMS into world-class institution

    COAS: We’re transforming NMS into world-class institution

    The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has said that the Nigerian Army is making sustained investments to improve teaching methodology, classroom aesthetics, and the deployment of modern technology to provide a world-class learning environment at the Nigerian Military School (NMS), Zaria.

    General Shaibu said this while addressing students of the school during an official visit on Saturday.

    The COAS reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to sustaining high standards in military education and training, describing the NMS as a “sacred foundation” that shapes the students’ contribution to national development.

    He charged students to uphold discipline, academic excellence and focus, noting that while some of the students would progress to further military training and eventually serve as officers of the Armed Forces, others would proceed to tertiary institutions. 

    “Wherever you find yourselves in the future, you will be different from your peers because of the discipline, enthusiasm and leadership values instilled in you here. 

    “This institution will always remain part of your life,” he said.

    The COAS also urged the students to uphold the school’s long-standing tradition of academic excellence, particularly its past achievements in inter-school quiz competitions, stressing the importance of hard work and commitment to studies.

    He said: “You have emerged through a rigorous selection process and have been introduced to a world-class learning environment. Everything is in place for you to succeed, and you must make the best use of this opportunity.”

    The Army Chief commended the officers, soldiers and instructors of the school for their dedication to grooming the students, describing them as custodians of the nation’s future leadership.

    “These young men are our future. Ensure they are properly guided, protected and kept on the trajectory of excellence,” he added.

  • COAS visits Oba of Lagos, urges traditional rulers’ support for military operations 

    COAS visits Oba of Lagos, urges traditional rulers’ support for military operations 

    The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-General Waidi Shaibu, has called for stronger support from the traditional institution for ongoing military operations across the country.

    General Shaibu made the appeal during a visit to the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu I, at his palace, on Thursday.

    In a statement issued on Friday by the Army spokesperson, Colonel Apollonia Anele, the COAS expressed profound appreciation to the monarch and the traditional council for their consistent support to the Nigerian Army.

    According to the statement, the Army Chief stated that his visit was not only to extend his gratitude to the monarch, but also to seek the blessings of the royal father, stressing that Nigeria’s customs and traditions remain sacrosanct and must always be honoured.

    General Shaibu commended Oba Akiolu for the fatherly role he has consistently played in supporting Army formations and institutions across Lagos State, describing the Oba’s guidance and goodwill as invaluable to the Army’s operational and civil–military cooperation efforts.

    Oba Akiolu commended the Nigerian Army for its unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation and maintaining peace. 

    He described the Army as a critical pillar upon which the Nigerian State stands, adding that the sacrifices and professionalism of its personnel have contributed significantly to national stability.

    The monarch applauded the COAS for his steadfast leadership and dedication to ensuring a peaceful and secure country. 

    He thereafter offered special prayers for sustained peace in Nigeria and for COAS ‘ successful tenure.

    According to the statement, visit underscores the Nigerian Army’s commitment to strengthening its relationship with traditional institutions, which remain vital stakeholders in the nation’s peace and security architecture.

  • COAS inaugurates projects at Lagbaja cantonment

    COAS inaugurates projects at Lagbaja cantonment

    The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen Waidi Shaibu, yesterday inaugurated projects at Lt-Gen Taoreed Lagbaja Cantonment in Ikeja, Lagos.

    It is aimed at improving personnel welfare and enhancing operational readiness of the Army.

    Army spokesperson Colonel Apollonia Anele, in a statement, said the projects were inaugurated during the COAS’s two-day official visit to formations and units within the 81 Division’s Area of Responsibility.

    The projects include a refurbished basketball court sponsored by First Bank, a remodelled Quarter Guard at the 9 Brigade Headquarters funded by Air Peace Airlines, and the new 9 Brigade Headquarters Complex, executed under the leadership of former Brigade Commander, Brig.-Gen Mathew Oyekola.

    Read Also: ‘We have recorded 860 terrorism convictions since 2017,’ says AGF Fagbemi

    “During the visit, General Shaibu also planted a tree at the barracks, symbolising the Army’s commitment to environmental sustainability,” the statement said.

    The Army Chief hailed the corporate partners and called for continued collaboration to improve barracks’ facilities and personnel welfare.