ARMY CHIEF CHARGES NEW OFFICERS TO MAINTAIN OPERATIONAL READINESS

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The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has urged newly commissioned Nigerian Army officers to remain operationally ready and provide professional leadership as the military expands its force structure.

Shaibu gave the charge on Friday while addressing officers of the Direct Short Service Course 29/2026 at the Nigerian Army School of Infantry in Jaji, Kaduna State. The officers had completed six months of military training.

The Army chief said the expansion of the Nigerian Army from eight to 12 divisions, alongside the planned recruitment of 28,000 additional soldiers, would increase the responsibilities of officers.

He noted that a larger workforce alone would not guarantee improved security outcomes without competent leadership and effective decision-making.

Shaibu urged the officers to lead by example, build trust among their troops and place mission responsibilities and soldiers’ welfare above personal interests. He also stressed the importance of character, integrity, discipline and competence.

The newly commissioned officers were advised to remain prepared for operational duties regardless of their areas of specialisation. Shaibu also encouraged them to continually improve their tactical knowledge, maintain physical fitness and pursue professional development.

He further urged the officers to embrace emerging military technologies, including surveillance systems, unmanned systems, intelligence capabilities and digital communications, while strengthening cooperation with other security agencies.