By Chimezie Godfrey
The Nigerian Army has unveiled plans to expand its operational formations across the country as part of renewed efforts to strengthen national security operations, improve troop welfare and enhance combat readiness.
The Chief of Army Staff, Waidi Shaibu, disclosed this on Monday during the opening ceremony of the COAS First Bi-Annual Conference 2026 held at the Nigerian Army Conference Centre and Suites, Abuja.
In a deeply symbolic moment that highlighted the Army’s commitment to personnel welfare, Lieutenant General Shaibu also presented Nigerian Army Personnel Insurance Cheques to families of fallen heroes and soldiers wounded in action.
The emotional ceremony reflected the Army’s resolve to honour personnel who paid the ultimate sacrifice in defence of the nation while supporting wounded troops and bereaved families.
Declaring the conference open, the Army Chief stressed that the trust, confidence and sustained support of Nigerians remain critical to achieving lasting peace and operational success across various theatres of operation.
He described the conference as a strategic platform aimed at reviewing ongoing military operations, evaluating gains recorded during the first half of 2026 and developing decisive strategies for the remaining part of the year.
According to him, discussions during the conference would focus on operational readiness, emerging security threats and measures to enhance operational effectiveness nationwide.
Lieutenant General Shaibu commended officers and soldiers for their resilience, gallantry and professionalism in confronting terrorism, banditry and other evolving security threats across the country.
Paying tribute to fallen personnel, he noted that the sacrifices of slain troops remain central to Nigeria’s unity, stability and peace.
“Their courage and sacrifice continue to inspire the nation and strengthen our collective resolve to defend Nigeria,” he said.
Reinforcing his “Soldier First Concept,” the COAS emphasised that troop welfare, morale, training and empowerment remain central pillars of the Army’s operational doctrine.
He urged commanders at all levels to maintain close interaction with troops in order to sustain morale, discipline and operational effectiveness.
Highlighting ongoing transformation initiatives within the Nigerian Army, the Army Chief disclosed that the service is expanding its operational footprint through the establishment of new formations nationwide.
He added that the expansion drive is being complemented by increased recruitment, improved military infrastructure, enhanced welfare packages and upgraded healthcare services for personnel.
According to him, prompt medical evacuation arrangements both within and outside Nigeria remain critical components of the Army’s troop support structure.
Lieutenant General Shaibu further stressed the importance of strengthening civil-military relations, noting that public support remains a vital force multiplier in ongoing military operations.
“The Nigerian Army will continue to pursue people-oriented initiatives alongside kinetic operations to foster trust and stability in host communities,” he stated.
The COAS also expressed appreciation to Bola Ahmed Tinubu for sustained support to the Nigerian Army, particularly in the acquisition of modern military equipment, refurbishment of operational platforms and enhancement of combat capabilities.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Major General Bamidele Alabi, said the conference would consolidate operational gains already recorded while setting a strategic direction for the second half of 2026.
He commended the leadership of the COAS and praised troops for their dedication and sacrifices in counter-insurgency and anti-banditry operations nationwide.
The conference is expected to continue with high-level strategic engagements focused on enhancing the Nigerian Army’s capacity to tackle emerging security threats while sustaining troop welfare and operational efficiency.
COAS Unveils New Army Expansion Honours Fallen Soldiers, Wounded Troops At 2026 Conference
