The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has visited senior leaders and traditional authorities in Niger State to seek their cooperation in the ongoing military operations against terrorism and banditry.
According to the Nigerian Army’s spokesperson, Colonel Apollonia Anele, General Shaibu met with former Heads of State, General Ibrahim Babangida and General Abdulsalami Abubakar, Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, and the Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar.
During the visits, the COAS reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to operational excellence, enhanced security, and collaboration with state governments and national leaders to combat insecurity.
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General Shaibu said the Army is enhancing training, doctrine, and operational readiness through exercises designed to assess combat units, identify gaps, and ensure mission-focused capabilities. “We are consolidating all available resources and leveraging technology to address security challenges effectively,” he said.
Highlighting Niger State’s strategic importance, the army chief noted his personal connection to the area, having previously served there as a Training and Doctrine Commander.
Generals Babangida and Abdulsalami praised the army chief for his leadership and dedication, while commending the Nigerian Army’s professionalism. Governor Bago, represented by his deputy, Yakubu Garba, expressed confidence that collaboration with the Army would restore peace and protect communities.
During his visit to the Etsu Nupe, the COAS pledged to strengthen security operations through increased troop deployment, improved technology use, and closer cooperation with traditional authorities.
He emphasized the importance of community-based intelligence and hailed the Etsu Nupe as a key ally.
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The Etsu Nupe assured continued support from traditional rulers, including intelligence sharing and prayers for military success, while commending the Army’s professionalism and engagement with local communities.
Colonel Anele stated that the visits underline the Army’s dedication to operational excellence, effective collaboration with government authorities, and safeguarding national security interests.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
