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COAS vows overhaul of Nigerian Army training, operations after 2025 conference
COAS vows overhaul of Nigerian Army training, operations after 2025 conference
By: Zagazola Makama
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has pledged a comprehensive overhaul of the Nigerian Army’s training, operations and administrative systems to align with evolving security threats and his command philosophy.
Shaibu made this known on Thursday at the closing ceremony of the Chief of Army Staff Annual Conference 2025, attended by senior military leadership, including Principal Staff Officers from Defence and Army Headquarters, Corps and Theatre Commanders, General Officers Commanding, Brigade Commanders and heads of Army establishments.
The COAS said the conference provided a platform to critically assess the Army’s operational and administrative performance in 2025, with a view to consolidating plans for the coming year.
“It is gratifying that the past few days have been filled with robust and engaging interactions on administration, training and operations of the Nigerian Army,” he said.
According to him, deliberations at the conference revealed the need for immediate reforms to further transform the Army into a more professional, adaptable, combat-ready and resilient force capable of operating effectively in joint and multi-agency environments.
Shaibu announced that Army Headquarters, through the Department of Training, would soon commence a holistic review of curricula across all Nigerian Army schools, with emphasis on mission-specific and realistic training.
“My grand plan for the total overhaul of our schools’ training curriculum will be codified, as realistic training directly influences operational outcomes,” he said.
The COAS added that greater emphasis would be placed on the training and employment of Special Forces and Army Aviation to achieve desired operational outcomes.
He noted that intelligence briefings and operational updates presented at the conference underscored the increasing complexity of Nigeria’s security environment.
“This evolving threat spectrum necessitates enhanced capabilities in intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition and reconnaissance, as well as cyber operations,” Shaibu said.
He stressed the need for continuous learning, adaptation and innovation, particularly in the face of regional instability and global shifts in the character of warfare.
The COAS expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces for sustained political support, especially in military hardware and software procurement, and commended conference participants for what he described as unprecedented contributions.
COAS orders completion of barracks housing, unveils post-service accommodation drive
Abuja, Dec. 18, 2025 (NAN) — The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has ordered the speedy completion of all ongoing residential accommodation projects in Nigerian Army barracks nationwide to address housing shortfalls among personnel.
Shaibu gave the directive on Thursday while addressing participants at the closing ceremony of the Chief of Army Staff Annual Conference 2025 in Abuja.
He said improving troop welfare, particularly accommodation, remained a core component of his command priorities and a continuation of efforts initiated by past Chiefs of Army Staff.
“In line with our welfare commitments to all Nigerian Army personnel, I shall continue to build on the efforts of past Chiefs of Army Staff in addressing the crisis of accommodation shortages,” he said.
The COAS disclosed that all ongoing housing projects would be completed and allocated promptly, while new residential projects would be initiated across divisions and barracks nationwide.
“As a stopgap measure, the Nigerian Army will be investing in a more comprehensive spread of renovation works in all our barracks,” Shaibu added.
He acknowledged that despite progress made so far, significant gaps remained, which required deliberate and sustained intervention.
Beyond in-service accommodation, the COAS said the Army would continue to prioritise post-service housing for soldiers and officers to ensure dignity and stability after retirement.
“With all these efforts aimed at addressing existing accommodation shortfalls, we will continue to strike a balance by also securing post-service housing for all our soldiers and officers,” he said.
Shaibu announced that he would be in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Friday for the commissioning of the Affordable Home Ownership Option (AHOO) project for soldiers, as well as the Post-Service Housing Development Limited shopping complex.
“Under my watch, the post-service housing needs of all our soldiers will remain a top priority, with due attention to the completion of ongoing projects,” he assured.
The COAS expressed confidence that the housing schemes would significantly alleviate accommodation challenges faced by serving and retired personnel, describing them as a critical component of the Army’s broader welfare architecture.
He commended the Chief of Logistics (Army) and other stakeholders for their contributions, and reiterated his resolve to confront accommodation challenges “head on with all the seriousness it deserves.”
COAS vows overhaul of Nigerian Army training, operations after 2025 conference
Troops Repel Terrorist Infiltration in Kanama, Neutralise Four Insurgents
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have repelled a Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorist infiltration into Kanama town, neutralising four insurgents during a swift response operation in Borno State.
Security sources said the incident occurred at about 6:00 p.m. on April 22 when troops of 159 Battalion, deployed in Kanama, responded to sounds of gunfire within the town.
On arrival, the troops reportedly discovered that terrorists had infiltrated parts of the community.
The troops immediately made contact and engaged the attackers with disciplined fire, forcing them to retreat in disarray.
Subsequent exploitation of the general area led to the neutralisation of four terrorists.
One member of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) sustained injuries during the encounter and has been evacuated for medical attention.
No military equipment was lost during the operation.
Items recovered from the terrorists include two torchlight mobile phones and the sum of ₦21,000.
Security sources said the general situation across the theatre remains calm but unpredictable, while troops’ morale and fighting efficiency remain high.
Troops Repel Terrorist Infiltration in Kanama, Neutralise Four Insurgents
News
Dramatic Testimony Rocks Nwaukoni Terrorism Trial In Asaba — Doctor Confirms Gunshot Wounds In Palace Attack Case
Dramatic Testimony Rocks Nwaukoni Terrorism Trial In Asaba — Doctor Confirms Gunshot Wounds In Palace Attack Case
The high-profile terrorism trial in Charge No. FHC/ASB/18C/2024 took a dramatic and gripping turn this week at the Federal High Court, Asaba, as explosive evidence and powerful witness testimonies continue to unfold against Mike Nwaukoni (aka “Supu”) and his alleged accomplices.
Standing trial alongside him are prominent figures including Barrister Francis Okolie, Secretary of the Ogwashi-Uku Development Association (ODA), and Mazi Elue Adigwe, the association’s Secretary-General, among others accused in connection with the violent October 12, 2023 attack on the Palace of the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku.
🔴 Doctor’s Testimony Leaves Court in Silence
In what court observers have described as one of the most chilling moments of the trial so far, Dr. Ezeike Ugochukwu Godwin took the witness stand and delivered a clinical yet deeply emotional account of the injuries sustained by a vigilante operative assigned to protect the Palace.
The doctor confirmed that the victim suffered multiple gunshot wounds, including injuries to the head and upper limbs, describing in precise medical terms the severity of the trauma.
According to his testimony, the victim was brought into the emergency unit in a state of intense pain and critical distress, alongside several others wounded during the attack.
Dr. Ezeike further told the court that the patient was referred from the Divisional Police Headquarters in Ogwashi-Uku, reinforcing the official chain of response following the violent incident.
🔴 Police Investigator Details Chaos and Destruction
A day earlier, on April 21, 2026, the court heard from Inspector Ijeoma Ovat, the initial Investigating Police Officer (IPO), who painted a harrowing picture of the aftermath of the attack.
She testified about the widespread chaos, multiple casualties, and destruction that followed the invasion of the Palace during the controversial Ineh Festival. Crucially, she tendered photographic evidence showing heavily damaged police and vigilante vehicles, corroborating claims of a coordinated and violent assault.
Sources within the prosecution confirm that the damage to the vehicles was extensive and consistent with armed aggression.
🔴 Witnesses Tie Defendants to Armed
AssaultEarlier testimonies in the trial have reportedly identified the defendants as active participants, alleging they were armed with guns and other dangerous weapons during the attack. Witnesses have also pointed to Mike Nwaukoni as a central figure who allegedly instigated and coordinated the operation.
🔴 Passport Request Sparks Legal Firestorm
In a fresh development that has further intensified proceedings, lead prosecutors in the case including CSP Samuel Mallum Esq and A.I Aminu Esq from the Police Legal Directorate in Abuja have strongly opposed an application by Nwaukoni’s legal team seeking the temporary release of his international passport for overseas travel.
According to sources, the prosecution argued that granting such a request poses a serious flight risk, warning that the defendant could attempt to evade justice, seek asylum, or acquire foreign citizenship.
The prosecution also suggested that the move may be a deliberate tactic to delay the trial, particularly as significant portions of the case have already been established.
The matter has been adjourned for further consideration, with hearings expected to resume in late May, continuing into early June 2026.
🔴 Calm Returns to Ogwashi-Uku Amid Trial
Meanwhile, community sources in Ogwashi-Uku report a notable return of peace and stability since the commencement of the trial. Residents have expressed hope that the judicial process will be seen through to a swift and just conclusion, bringing lasting closure to one of the most serious security incidents in the Kingdom’s recent history.
Dramatic Testimony Rocks Nwaukoni Terrorism Trial In Asaba — Doctor Confirms Gunshot Wounds In Palace Attack Case
Troops Intercept Suspected Terrorist Logistics Supplier, Seize PMS in Borno
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have arrested a suspected ISWAP/JAS logistics supplier and intercepted a large quantity of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) concealed in a tricycle in Borno State.
Security sources said the suspect was apprehended at about 9:10 a.m. on April 21 by troops of 159 Battalion at a checkpoint within Sector 2 Area of Responsibility.
The suspect was reportedly conveying PMS concealed in 15 sacks, disguised with bags of sachet water in an attempt to evade detection.
Preliminary investigations indicated that the consignment was being transported to Kanama town and neighbouring communities around Dikwa and Bultuwa, areas believed to be within terrorist influence.
Items recovered from the suspect include a mobile phone and the sum of ₦34,950.
The sources said the suspect and recovered exhibits are in military custody for further investigation and necessary action.
They added that the interception forms part of ongoing operations aimed at disrupting terrorist logistics networks and denying them access to critical supplies across the North-East theatre.
Troops Intercept Suspected Terrorist Logistics Supplier, Seize PMS in Borno
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Troops Repel Terrorist Infiltration in Kanama, Neutralise Four Insurgents
Troops Respond to Attack in Zamfara, IED Incident Recorded Without Casualties
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