Christmas, New Year: Shaibu reaffirms commitment to professional, combat-ready Nigerian Army

By: Zagazola Makama

As Nigerians join Christians around the world to celebrate Christmas 2025 and look ahead to the New Year 2026, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has used the festive season to reaffirm the Nigerian Army’s resolve to remain a professional, adaptable and combat-ready force in the defence of the nation.

In a goodwill message to officers, soldiers, civilian staff and their families, Shaibu described Christmas as a season of reflection, renewal of faith and thanksgiving, noting that the values it represents love, sacrifice, compassion, peace and unity are also central to the ethos of the Nigerian Army.

According to him, the past year has been marked by significant challenges and notable achievements across various theatres of operation, where troops have continued to demonstrate resilience and professionalism in the face of evolving security threats.

“The Nigerian Army continues to demonstrate exceptional professionalism in all theatres of operation in the defence of our fatherland,” the army chief said, attributing these achievements to divine guidance and the commitment of personnel.

A major focus of the COAS’ message was the sacrifice of troops deployed in operational areas who, he noted, would be unable to celebrate the yuletide season with their families due to the demands of duty. He described their absence from home as a profound sacrifice that underscores their dedication to national service.

Shaibu assured personnel that his leadership would continue to prioritise professionalism, combat readiness and sound administration, with increased attention to welfare, recognition of excellence, and a transparent reward and sanction system.

He explained that these measures align with his command philosophy of advancing the transformation of the Nigerian Army into a force capable of decisively discharging its constitutional responsibilities within a joint and multi-agency environment.

Beyond the troops at the frontlines, the COAS paid glowing tribute to the families of officers and soldiers, describing them as the “unseen strength” behind the success of the army. He said the Nigerian Army remained committed to improving welfare programmes designed to support military families.

The message also illustrates the importance of collaboration, as Shaibu acknowledged the support of sister services, security and intelligence agencies, ministries and departments, as well as state governors, traditional rulers and host communities.

He said such cooperation and synergy remained critical to sustaining peace and security across the country.

Looking ahead to 2026, the army chief expressed optimism, pledging that the Nigerian Army would intensify efforts to address emerging threats, consolidate gains already achieved, strengthen intelligence capabilities and further boost morale and welfare.

He urged officers and soldiers to remain disciplined and security-conscious during the festive season, while upholding the highest standards of conduct.

Shaibu also used the occasion to honour fallen heroes, noting that their gallantry and sacrifice had contributed immensely to national security. He assured that the army would continue to support their families and preserve their legacy.

In the message, the COAS expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for his unwavering support to the Nigerian Army.

He cited improved funding for critical operations, enhanced training infrastructure, acquisition of modern equipment, strengthened welfare initiatives and an increased recruitment quota as key outcomes of the president’s commitment to national security.

According to him, these interventions have significantly improved the army’s operational readiness and morale.

As the festive season unfolds, Shaibu wished all officers, soldiers, civilian staff and their families a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year 2026, expressing confidence that the Nigerian Army would enter the coming year more united, disciplined and resolute in the service of the nation.

Christmas, New Year: Shaibu reaffirms commitment to professional, combat-ready Nigerian Army