The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has paid tribute to fallen Nigerian soldiers while reaffirming the Army’s commitment to improving the welfare of serving personnel across the country.
Shaibu made the remarks on Monday during the opening of the Chief of Army Staff First Bi-Annual Conference 2026 held in Abuja.
As part of activities at the conference, the Army chief led the presentation of Nigerian Army Personnel Insurance cheques to families of deceased soldiers and personnel wounded in active service.
He described the gesture as a reflection of the Army’s responsibility to honour officers and soldiers who paid the ultimate sacrifice in defence of the nation, as well as those who sustained life-changing injuries in the line of duty.
According to him, the sacrifices of fallen troops remain a constant reminder of the price paid to maintain national security and stability across the country.
Shaibu said the courage and dedication of military personnel continued to support ongoing counter-insurgency and internal security operations in different parts of Nigeria.
He stressed that troop welfare remained a central part of his leadership agenda, noting that operational success could not be sustained without proper motivation, support and care for frontline personnel.
The Army chief reiterated the importance of the “Soldier First Concept,” which focuses on improving welfare, morale, training and professional development for military personnel.
He urged commanders at all levels to maintain close interaction with troops under their command and remain attentive to their needs and welfare.
According to him, the Nigerian Army is intensifying efforts to improve accommodation, healthcare services, operational support and general living conditions for personnel and their families in formations nationwide.
Shaibu also disclosed that the Army was expanding its operational presence through the establishment of new formations, increased recruitment and infrastructure upgrades aimed at boosting response capacity in security flashpoints.
He added that medical evacuation systems had been strengthened to ensure injured personnel receive prompt treatment both within and outside the country.
The COAS further emphasised the importance of strong civil-military relations, saying public cooperation remained essential to achieving lasting success in the fight against insecurity.
He assured Nigerians that the Army would continue combining military operations with non-kinetic approaches designed to build trust and strengthen peace in affected communities.
Shaibu also appreciated President Bola Tinubu, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for continued support to the military, particularly in equipment procurement, infrastructure development and personnel welfare.
He charged senior military officers to sustain ongoing reforms and ensure welfare initiatives translate into improved morale and operational effectiveness across all theatres of operation.
The conference is expected to continue in Abuja with strategic sessions and operational reviews focused on strengthening the Army’s response to emerging security challenges nationwide.
