By Sofiat Adenekan-Abdul
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has charged senior Nigerian Army commanders to demonstrate strategic leadership, professionalism and adaptability in confronting the country’s evolving security threats.
Shaibu gave the charge on Wednesday while declaring open the Second Senior Command and Leadership Seminar 2026 at the Headquarters of 1 Division Nigerian Army, Kaduna.
The seminar, themed “Strategic Leadership for Effective Command in an Evolving Security Environment,” brings together senior commanders and resource persons to strengthen leadership capacity and enhance the military’s response to emerging security challenges.
The Army Chief said success in modern military operations goes beyond battlefield strength, stressing that effective leadership, public confidence and professional conduct are equally critical to achieving strategic objectives.
He identified terrorism, insurgency, banditry, organised crime, cyber threats, emerging technologies and information warfare as major factors reshaping Nigeria’s security environment.
Shaibu urged commanders to remain innovative, decisive and adaptable, particularly when operating in uncertain and rapidly changing conditions.
«“Commanders must remain intellectually agile, operationally innovative and morally courageous, while exercising sound judgement in conditions of uncertainty,” he said.»
The COAS also warned of the growing deployment of misinformation and manipulation by adversaries to undermine public confidence in military operations, directing commanders to support operational decisions with timely, accurate and credible communication.
He further emphasised discipline, respect for human rights and civilian protection, urging commanders to ensure strict compliance with the Rules of Engagement and accountability at all levels.
«“No strategic communication effort can compensate for indiscipline or unprofessional conduct in the field,” Shaibu said.»
He noted that the conduct of troops can influence the Army’s reputation far beyond the immediate theatre of operations, stressing that professionalism, discipline and responsible leadership remain essential to sustaining public trust in the Nigerian Army.
