Army Chief assures Niger of renewed offensive against insecurity

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s resolve to intensify efforts aimed at curbing insecurity in Niger State.

Shaibu gave the assurance on Tuesday during a courtesy visit to Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago at the Government House, Minna. He was received at the Council Chamber by the Deputy Governor, Comrade Yakubu Garba.

The Army Chief disclosed plans to deploy additional resources to strengthen the Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC) of the Nigerian Army as part of measures to address the prevailing security challenges in the state.

Explaining the purpose of his visit, Shaibu said it was primarily to declare open the 2026 Training and Doctrine Command Conference, noting that the forum would help align operational strategies and enhance both training and doctrinal development within the Army.

“This conference will galvanise all planned activities and provide opportunities to improve our training and doctrine in line with current security realities,” he said.

Shaibu added that he would also conduct operational assessments of the Headquarters of the 31 Artillery Brigade and the 18 Brigade in Bida to identify and address existing operational gaps.

He commended the Niger State Government for its sustained support to TRADOC and other military formations operating in the state, stressing that the Nigerian Army looks forward to deeper collaboration to enhance security.

In his response, Governor Bago pledged the state government’s continued support for the Nigerian Army and other security agencies, while commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for their commitment to strengthening national security.