By Ola ‘Kiya, Reporting
PRESIDENT Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to the welfare, professionalism and operational effectiveness of the Nigerian Armed Forces as the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Annual Conference 2025 commenced in Lagos.
The President gave the assurance at the opening ceremony of the conference, where he paid tribute to serving and retired senior military officers whose sacrifices and leadership have helped shape the Nigerian
Army over the years. Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu described the gathering of elder statesmen and former Service Chiefs as a powerful testament to the Army’s enduring heritage, professionalism and fighting spirit.
He commended officers and soldiers for their courage and patriotism, noting that their willingness to place national duty above personal comfort in defence of Nigeria’s sovereignty and unity would remain indelibly etched in the nation’s history.
The President said the annual conference provides a vital platform for reflection, strategic evaluation and continuous improvement in training, administration and operations, especially in the face of evolving global, regional and national security challenges.
Also speaking at the event, the Minister of Defence, retired General Christopher Musa, described the conference as a critical strategic forum for reviewing operational posture, assessing readiness and aligning the Army’s future direction with national security priorities.
He praised the resilience and professionalism of Army personnel and acknowledged the contributions of past Service Chiefs and senior officers, both serving and retired.
Musa stressed the need for enhanced joint operations, inter-agency collaboration and a whole-of-society approach to addressing Nigeria’s complex security challenges.
He urged senior commanders to ensure that resolutions reached at the conference translate into concrete operational actions and measurable results on the battlefield.
In his welcome address, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, expressed deep appreciation to President Tinubu for his sustained political will and strategic support, particularly in the areas of personnel welfare, equipment modernisation, training and institutional reforms.
He also acknowledged the legislative and budgetary support of the National Assembly, which he said has significantly boosted the Army’s operational readiness across all theatres.
The COAS reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s leading role in the fight against terrorism, insurgency, banditry and other forms of criminality, noting that the force is deliberately transforming into a more professional, adaptive and technology-driven institution capable of addressing both conventional and asymmetric threats.
He urged participants to be guided by patriotism, professionalism and a shared commitment to national peace and stability.
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, described security as a fundamental prerequisite for development and commended the Nigerian Army for its pivotal role in preserving national unity and safeguarding democratic governance.
He specifically lauded the Headquarters 81 Division of the Nigerian Army for its contributions to peace and stability in Lagos and assured the continued support of the state government.
The opening ceremony attracted senior government officials, Service Chiefs, former Chiefs of Defence Staff and Chiefs of Army Staff, senior military officers serving and retired, heads of security agencies, diplomats and other distinguished guests.
The COAS Annual Conference 2025 is expected to deliberate on key operational, administrative and strategic issues aimed at further strengthening the Nigerian Army’s capacity to effectively discharge its constitutional responsibilities.
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