Chief of Army staff visits IBB, Abdusalam, pledges better security in Niger State

Chief of Army staff visits IBB, Abdusalam, pledges better security in Niger State

Waidi Shaibu, chief of army staff (COAS), on Tuesday paid courtesy visits to Ibrahim Babangida and Abdulsalami Abubakar, former heads of state, and Umaru Bago, governor of Niger state.

Appolonia Anele, acting director of army public relations, said in a statement that the visits were aimed at reaffirming the Nigerian Army’s commitment to operational excellence, improved security, and collaboration with state governments and national leaders.

According to the statement, the COAS said the army is strengthening training, doctrine and operational readiness across its formations, adding that exercises are ongoing in training institutions to ensure personnel receive practical, mission-orientated training.

He noted that the exercises are helping to evaluate the operational disposition of combat units and identify gaps that may require additional troops or the establishment of new formations.

Speaking on the strategic importance of Niger, Shaibu said the army is consolidating resources and leveraging technology to tackle security challenges, noting that the state’s vast landmass makes it critical to national security.

“Niger state holds a special place in our history. I have previously served here as a training and doctrine commander, and many of my colleagues also share a deep connection with this state. It is, in many ways, regarded as home,” he said.

The army chief also said he visited the 31st, 11th and 18th brigades in Bida to assess operational gaps and provide resources to address recent insecurity in the state.

Babangida and Abdulsalami, in their separate remarks, congratulated Shaibu on his appointment and commended him for his dedication and leadership.

They also prayed to God to grant the COAS wisdom and courage as he leads the army amid current security challenges.

On his part, Bago welcomed the COAS and praised the army’s support in tackling security issues in the country.

Bago, who was represented by Yakubu Garba, his deputy, expressed confidence that the partnership between Niger state and the army would help restore peace and stability.

“We are confident that, with the partnership of the Nigerian Army, we will overcome current challenges and protect lives and communities,” Bago said.