By Harriet Tornguvan
The Nigerian Army has announced plans to expand its formations across the country as part of efforts to strengthen operational effectiveness and address evolving security challenges nationwide.
The disclosure was made by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, during the opening of the First Bi-Annual Conference 2026 held at the Nigerian Army Conference Centre and Suites in Abuja.
In a solemn highlight of the event, the Army Chief presented Nigerian Army Personnel Insurance cheques to families of fallen soldiers and troops wounded in action, reaffirming the institution’s commitment to honouring sacrifice and supporting personnel affected by conflict.
According to a statement issued by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the gesture reflected the Army’s resolve to stand by families of deceased personnel and wounded troops whose sacrifices continue to inspire the nation.Declaring the conference open, Lieutenant General Shaibu described the gathering as a strategic platform to review ongoing military operations, assess achievements recorded in the first half of 2026 and chart operational strategies for the remainder of the year.
He stressed that the confidence and support of Nigerians remain vital to achieving sustainable security and operational success across the country.
The Army Chief commended officers and soldiers for their resilience, professionalism and gallantry in confronting diverse security threats, while paying tribute to fallen heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in defence of the nation.
“Their sacrifice remains the foundation of Nigeria’s unity and peace,” he stated.
Reiterating his “Soldier First Concept,” Shaibu said troop welfare, morale, training and empowerment remain central to sustaining combat effectiveness. He urged commanders at all levels to maintain close interaction with personnel to preserve morale and enhance operational readiness.
The COAS further revealed that the Army’s transformation agenda includes the establishment of new formations nationwide, increased recruitment, improved infrastructure, enhanced welfare packages and upgraded healthcare services for personnel.
He added that prompt medical evacuation arrangements, both within and outside Nigeria, remain a critical aspect of troop support.
Shaibu also underscored the importance of stronger civil military relations, noting that public support serves as a force multiplier in ongoing military operations. According to him, the Nigerian Army will continue to pursue people-oriented programmes alongside kinetic operations to build trust and stability in host communities.
The Army Chief expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his sustained support to the military, noting that such backing has enabled the acquisition of modern equipment, refurbishment of existing platforms and improved operational capability.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Major General Bamidele Alabi, said the conference would consolidate operational gains and provide strategic direction for the remainder of the year.
He commended the leadership of the COAS and the commitment of troops engaged in counter-insurgency and anti-banditry operations across the country, urging participants to contribute meaningfully to discussions.
The conference is expected to continue with high-level engagements aimed at strengthening the Nigerian Army’s capacity to tackle emerging security threats while sustaining its commitment to personnel welfare and national security.
