COAS Unveils New Army Formations, Honours Fallen Soldiers at 2026 Bi-Annual Conference
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Waidi Shaibu, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to troop welfare and national security, announcing plans to expand military formations across the country while honouring fallen soldiers and troops wounded in action.
This is contained in a statement signed by Colonel APPOLONIA ANELE
Speaking at the opening of the COAS First Bi-Annual Conference 2026 held at the Nigerian Army Conference Centre and Suites, the Army Chief presented Nigerian Army Personnel Insurance cheques to families of deceased soldiers and personnel injured during operations.
Acting Director Army Public Relations, made available to newsmen on Sunday.
The emotional ceremony highlighted the Army’s pledge to support the families of fallen heroes and care for wounded troops whose sacrifices, according to the COAS, continue to inspire the nation.
Lieutenant General Shaibu described the conference as a strategic forum for reviewing military operations conducted in the first half of 2026 and developing new strategies to tackle emerging security threats across the country.
He stressed that the trust and support of Nigerians remain essential to achieving lasting peace and operational success, adding that discussions during the conference would focus on operational readiness, improved effectiveness, and responses to evolving security challenges.
The Army Chief commended officers and soldiers for their resilience, gallantry, and professionalism in ongoing counter-insurgency and anti-banditry operations nationwide. He also paid tribute to fallen personnel, noting that their sacrifices remain vital to preserving Nigeria’s unity and stability.
Reaffirming his “Soldier First Concept,” Shaibu said troop welfare, morale, training, and empowerment remain central to sustaining combat effectiveness. He urged commanders to maintain close engagement with personnel to ensure high morale and operational readiness across formations.
Highlighting ongoing reforms within the Army, the COAS disclosed that the Nigerian Army is establishing new formations nationwide as part of efforts to strengthen its operational footprint. He added that the Army is also increasing recruitment, improving infrastructure, expanding welfare packages, and upgrading healthcare services for personnel.
According to him, prompt medical evacuation arrangements within and outside Nigeria remain a major component of troop support initiatives.
The Army Chief further emphasised the importance of stronger civil-military relations, describing public support as a critical force multiplier in military operations. He said the Nigerian Army would continue to combine kinetic operations with people-oriented programmes aimed at building trust and stability in host communities.
Shaibu also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support to the Armed Forces, which he said has enabled the acquisition of modern equipment, refurbishment of military platforms, and enhanced operational capability.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Bamidele Alabi, said the conference would consolidate operational gains recorded so far and provide direction for the remaining part of the year.
He commended the leadership of the COAS and the dedication of troops in ongoing operations across the country, urging participants to contribute meaningfully to deliberations aimed at strengthening the Army’s capacity to address evolving security threats.
NewsAnnexOnline 