COAS charges newly promoted generals on regional security, professionalism and strategic foresight

By: Zagazola Makama

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has tasked newly promoted senior officers of the Nigerian Army to embrace strategic foresight, deepen inter-agency collaboration and strengthen Nigeria’s security posture across the West African sub-region.

Shaibu gave the charge in Abuja during the decoration ceremony of newly promoted Major-Generals and Brigadiers at the Nigerian Army Officers’ Mess, where he delivered a far-reaching and reflective address on the responsibilities that come with elevation to the strategic tier of military leadership.

The COAS, who began by calling for a minute’s silence in honour of Nigeria’s fallen heroes, described the ceremony as a celebration of “years of hard work, sacrifice, and exemplary service” by officers whose careers he said had been shaped by discipline, dedication and integrity.

He noted that the promotions were taking place at a time when Nigeria continued to grapple with a complex security environment marked by terrorism, violent extremism, secessionist agitations and other asymmetric threats demanding innovative thinking and adaptive operational leadership.

“Our nation is confronted with diverse and evolving threats that require us to be forward-looking, strategically prepared and operationally decisive,” Shaibu said. “We must all embrace a culture of strategic foresight and preparedness that enhances our professional posture in dealing with uncertainties and adversaries.”

Reiterates Nigeria’s Role in West African Security, Shaibu underscored Nigeria’s central role in safeguarding the stability of the West African region.

He stressed that the Army must continue to support efforts that strengthen shared border security, promote democratic governance and deepen regional cooperation.

“I wish to reiterate that our role in the security of the West African sub-region is vital,” he said. “We must continue to support general efforts to deepen our lived experiences, secure our shared borders and uphold democratic governance as the key to stability across our region.”

He described the Nigerian Army as the “foundation of national stability and constitutional order” whose loyalty to the Commander-in-Chief and the Constitution must remain unwavering.

The COAS reminded the newly promoted officers that attaining senior ranks in the Army was not a reward but a call to greater service.

“Promotion in the Nigerian Army is a systemic journey filled with challenges,” he said. “It is earned through merit, diligence, loyalty, integrity and courage. You must remain focused, committed and ready to provide the leadership required at this critical turning point in global and regional security.”

He urged them to carry their new ranks with humility and to deploy their expanded authority in the service of national security and institutional advancement.

Shaibu paid special tribute to the families of the promoted officers, acknowledging the sacrifices, long separations and emotional support that underpin military service.

“Behind every dedicated officer is a family that endures long waits, silent sacrifices and countless uncertainties. We thank you for your strength and support,” he said.

He also commended the men and women of the Nigerian Army for their resilience and commitment, emphasizing the need for cooperation with intelligence agencies, the police, paramilitary organisations and civilian stakeholders.

“No single service can address Nigeria’s security challenges alone,” he said. “Collaboration, information sharing and coordinated efforts are essential to safeguarding our nation.”

The COAS charged the senior officers to raise the bar of operational effectiveness, leadership and public trust.

“Our expectations are high. Nigerians must see and trust the Army as a force of stability, unity and national prosperity,” he said. “This promotion is a call to renewed service, loyalty and professionalism.”

He closed by urging the officers to use their new ranks to advance the interests of the Nigerian Army and strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture.

“Carry this honour with humility, act with pride, and remain steadfast in defending our nation,” he said.

The ceremony, held at the Nigerian Army Officers Mess, attracted senior Service chiefs, both serving and retired, Minister of defence, heads strategic institutions, family members and representatives of allied agencies.

In his remarks, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu congratulated the newly promoted Major Generals of the Nigerian Army, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to building a more capable, well-resourced and operationally efficient Armed Forces.

Delivering the President’s message at the decoration ceremony in Abuja, the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd), said Mr President remained fully committed to safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty and strengthening its defence architecture.

He commended the Armed Forces for their professionalism during the recent attempted coup in Benin Republic, saying Nigeria’s swift response contributed to stabilising the situation.

“Our prompt response ensured that the coup failed. The Armed Forces must remain ready 24/7 to respond to threats against us or our allies,” he said.

The minister urged the newly promoted officers to lead with integrity, wisdom and compassion, stressing that the welfare and administration of troops under their command must remain a priority.

“Remember that your men are critical to your success. Their welfare and well-being are central to effective command,” he said.

He also praised the Chief of Army Staff and the Army leadership for upholding the integrity of the promotion process and selecting officers whose service records exemplify excellence.

The minister reiterated that joint operations and enhanced intelligence-sharing were essential to defeating terrorism, banditry and other emerging threats.

“As Nigerians, the challenge is a collective one. We must work together with clarity of purpose,” he said.

The ceremony, attracted Service chiefs, both serving and retired, Minister of defence, heads of strategic institutions, family members and representatives of allied agencies.

COAS charges newly promoted generals on regional security, professionalism and strategic foresight