President Bola Tinubu has restated his administration's firm commitment to enhancing the welfare, professionalism, and operational capacity of the Nigerian Armed Forces. The President's declaration came during the opening ceremony of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Yearly Conference 2025, held in Lagos on December 15.
Leadership Tributes and National Duty
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, President Tinubu paid special tribute to both serving and retired senior military officers. He highlighted that their sacrifices, leadership, and institutional knowledge continue to be foundational for the Nigerian Army. The gathering of elder statesmen and former service chiefs, he noted, stands as a powerful testament to the enduring heritage and fighting spirit of the nation's military.
Tinubu specifically commended the courage and patriotism of officers and soldiers who consistently prioritize national duty over personal comfort. He asserted that their efforts in defending Nigeria's sovereignty and unity will be permanently recorded in the country's history.
Security as a Pillar for Development
In his remarks, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, described security as a non-negotiable prerequisite for any meaningful development. He praised the Nigerian Army for its central role in preserving national unity and protecting democratic governance.
Governor Sanwo-Olu gave particular recognition to the Headquarters 81 Division, Nigerian Army, for its contributions to maintaining peace and stability in Lagos State. He assured the continued and full support of the state government to the Army's operations within its jurisdiction.
"Nigeria’s military history is deeply interwoven with our national journey," Sanwo-Olu stated. "The Nigerian Army has remained a defining institution in the preservation of our territorial integrity and our national cohesion."
Strategic Reviews and Future Directions
The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd), characterized the conference as a vital strategic forum. He said its purpose is to review the Army's operational posture, assess readiness, and align its future direction with the nation's security priorities.
General Musa praised the resilience and professionalism of Army personnel and acknowledged the contributions of past and present service chiefs. He stressed the critical importance of joint operations, inter-agency collaboration, and a whole-of-society approach to tackling Nigeria's complex security challenges. The Minister urged senior commanders to ensure the conference's deliberations lead to concrete actions and measurable results on the ground.
In his welcome address, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, expressed deep gratitude to President Tinubu for his sustained political will and strategic support. He cited specific improvements in personnel welfare, equipment modernization, training, and institutional reforms. Lieutenant General Shaibu also acknowledged the invaluable legislative and budgetary backing from the National Assembly, which he said has significantly boosted the Army's operational readiness across all theatres of engagement.
The high-profile event was attended by key figures including the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede; the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas; Senator Azeez Musa Yar'Adua, representing the Senate President; and Jimi Benson, representing the Speaker of the House of Representatives.
