The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has reiterated the Nigerian Army’s determination to address evolving security challenges across the country, emphasizing a renewed focus on strategy, collaboration, and troop morale.

During an operational visit to Yobe State on Friday, April 10, 2026, the army chief conducted a comprehensive battlefield assessment aimed at reviewing ongoing military operations and strengthening responses to insurgency in the North-East. He was received by Governor Mai Mala Buni at the Muhammadu Buhari International Cargo Airport.

Strengthening Military Strategy Amid Evolving Threats

Speaking during the visit, Shaibu acknowledged that security threats in the region have become increasingly complex, with insurgent groups adopting new tactics. He noted that recent attacks on troop positions highlight the need for continuous adaptation and intelligence-driven operations.

According to him, the Nigerian Army is already implementing tactical adjustments designed to improve operational effectiveness and ensure sustained pressure on armed groups. These include enhanced coordination among units, improved surveillance, and a stronger emphasis on rapid response.

“The nature of modern security threats requires flexibility and innovation. Our forces are adjusting accordingly to stay ahead,” he said.

Security analysts note that such high-level battlefield assessments are critical in modern warfare, as they allow military leadership to directly evaluate conditions on the ground and make informed strategic decisions.

Boosting Troop Morale and Operational Effectiveness

A key objective of the visit was to boost the morale of troops operating in challenging environments. Military experts often highlight morale as a decisive factor in counterinsurgency operations, where soldiers face prolonged deployments and unpredictable threats.

At the Headquarters of Sector 2, Joint Task Force North-East, Operation HADIN KAI in Damaturu, the COAS interacted directly with frontline personnel. He commended their resilience and urged them to remain focused and professional in the discharge of their duties.

Shaibu also paid tribute to fallen soldiers, describing their sacrifices as a driving force behind ongoing operations. He encouraged troops to remain steadfast in honour of their colleagues who lost their lives in service to the nation.

Collaboration Between Military and Civil Authorities

The visit also underscored the importance of cooperation between the military and civilian authorities. Governor Babagana Zulum, accompanied by Senator Ali Ndume, paid a condolence visit to the army chief during the engagement, expressing support for the Armed Forces and sympathy over recent losses.

Zulum reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting security agencies, noting that the dynamic nature of threats requires continuous collaboration and innovative approaches.

Similarly, Governor Mai Mala Buni commended the Nigerian Army’s efforts in stabilizing parts of the state and emphasized the importance of sustained partnership between government institutions and security forces.

Experts widely agree that civil-military cooperation plays a crucial role in counterinsurgency efforts, particularly in regions where local intelligence and community trust are essential for success.

Adapting to a Changing Security Landscape

Nigeria’s North-East has faced persistent security challenges over the past decade, with insurgent activities affecting communities, infrastructure, and economic development. While the military has recorded significant successes, the situation continues to evolve.

Shaibu stressed that the Nigerian Army remains committed to adapting its operational approaches to meet these changing realities. He highlighted the role of technology, intelligence sharing, and inter-agency collaboration in strengthening national security efforts.

Observers say such adaptive strategies are essential in addressing asymmetric threats, where non-state actors rely on unconventional tactics.

The Role of Public Support

The COAS also called for continued support from citizens, noting that public cooperation is vital in achieving lasting peace. He emphasized that timely information sharing and community engagement can significantly enhance the effectiveness of military operations.

“Security is a collective responsibility. The support of the people remains critical to our success,” he added.

Looking Ahead

The visit to Yobe State reflects a broader effort by the Nigerian Army to reassess its operations and reinforce its commitment to national security. By combining strategic evaluation, troop engagement, and collaboration with civil authorities, the military aims to build on recent gains while addressing emerging threats.

As Nigeria continues to confront complex security challenges, stakeholders agree that sustained coordination, adaptive strategies, and public support will remain key pillars in the pursuit of long-term peace and stability.

In preparation for the 2026 Easter celebrations, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has announced an unprecedented nationwide deployment of 57,000 personnel to ensure a peaceful and incident-free holiday.
The operation—approved by the Commandant General, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, mni, OFR—covers all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), reflecting a strategic commitment to national security during high-traffic festive periods.

According to the NSCDC leadership, the large-scale deployment incorporates conventional officers, tactical operatives, intelligence units, and specialized squads—all placed on heightened alert to counter potential threats, safeguard citizens, and protect key national infrastructure.

Nationwide Security Reinforcement and Critical Infrastructure Protection

The Easter security operation is designed as a proactive response to evolving criminal trends and the seasonal movement of people across the country.
Under Prof. Audi’s directive, Zonal Commanders, State Commandants, and Provosts of all NSCDC colleges have been ordered to enforce comprehensive security coverage across their jurisdictions.

Key focus areas include:

• Major highways and interstate travel corridors
• Churches and worship centres
• Markets, malls, and commercial hubs
• Motor parks and mass-transit terminals
• Hotels, event venues, and recreational facilities
• Public squares and tourist areas
• Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI), including power installations, pipelines, telecom facilities, dams, rail assets, and water supply systems

The NSCDC disclosed that surveillance operations will combine high-visibility patrols with covert intelligence officers stationed across strategic locations to detect, deter, and disrupt any form of criminal activity before escalation.

Commandant General Emphasizes Vigilance, Joint Operations, and Public Cooperation

Speaking ahead of the nationwide deployment, Prof. Audi stressed the importance of sustained vigilance, inter-agency synergy, and rapid information flow as critical components of the Easter security strategy.

He noted that coordination between the NSCDC, Police, DSS, Nigerian Army, FRSC, and other sister agencies remains central to delivering a peaceful holiday.

According to him:

“Our goal is a seamless and secure Easter season. We are working hand-in-hand with sister agencies to maintain order. I also urge parents and guardians to properly guide their children, ensuring they are not manipulated into activities capable of disrupting public peace.”

He further appealed to citizens to remain alert, report suspicious activities promptly, and cooperate fully with security personnel deployed across the country.

Specialized Tactical Units Placed on Maximum Alert

Several of the Corps’ elite units have been activated and placed on stand-by for rapid deployment where necessary. These include:

1. CG’s Special Intelligence Squad (CG-SIS)

A covert intelligence arm trained for discreet operations, deep surveillance, and rapid interception of high-risk threats.

2. Mining Marshals

A specialized team assigned to curb illegal mining activities, protect solid mineral assets, and prevent resource-driven conflict escalation during the festive season.

3. Special Female Squad (SFS)

A trained female tactical team responsible for crowd control, anti-kidnapping operations, and sensitive security interventions requiring gender balance.

4. Crack Squad

The NSCDC’s high-impact response unit equipped to handle violent crimes, organized criminal groups, riots, and threats against national critical infrastructure.

All teams have been instructed to maintain maximum readiness and respond decisively to any attempted disruption of public safety during the Easter holidays.

Public Participation Remains Key to Successful Security Operations

While the NSCDC has deployed massive personnel and resources, the Commandant General emphasized that public vigilance remains a crucial element in maintaining security.
Citizens are urged to:

• Report unusual or suspicious behaviour
• Avoid spreading unverified information that may cause panic
• Comply with directives from security personnel
• Keep emergency numbers handy
• Prioritize the safety of children and vulnerable persons

He reminded the public that security is a shared responsibility and cooperation enhances the success of national operations.

SIGNED:

AFOLABI BABAWALE, Anipr
Assistant Commandant of Corps
National Public Relations Officer
Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Thursday, 2 April 2026, led a high-powered delegation of service chiefs and heads of security agencies to Jos, Plateau State, conducting a comprehensive on-the-ground assessment of the evolving security situation in the state.
The visit forms part of renewed national efforts to stabilise the region, strengthen civil-military coordination, and consolidate ongoing peace-building operations.

Upon arrival, the COAS was received by the Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency Caleb Mutfwang, signalling strong cooperation between the state government and security institutions in addressing recent tensions and emerging threats affecting affected communities.

Operational Briefing Highlights Renewed Joint Security Measures

During the tour, Lieutenant General Shaibu was briefed by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division and Commander of the Joint Task Force, Operation ENDURING PEACE, Major General Folusho Oyinlola.
The briefing covered:

• Current deployment patterns across vulnerable communities
• Joint operations involving the Army, Police, DSS, NSCDC, and local security outfits
• Early-warning and community-engagement mechanisms
• Curfew enforcement strategies
• Intelligence-gathering improvements and rapid response protocols

The GOC emphasized that operations are being conducted in full synergy with sister agencies to ensure coordinated responses to threats, protect civilians, and prevent further escalation in affected areas.

COAS Meets Community Leaders, Assures Neutrality and Protection for All

As part of the engagement, the COAS met with traditional rulers, community leaders, and residents, urging citizens to remain calm, vigilant and supportive of the security forces working round the clock to stabilize Plateau State.

He reiterated that:

• The Nigerian Army remains neutral, professional, and committed to protecting all law-abiding residents
• Civilian cooperation is critical to the success of current operations
• Curfew compliance will help prevent opportunistic violence
• Community intelligence is central to securing early breakthroughs in investigations

Lieutenant General Shaibu assured residents that the military will not relent until peace is fully restored and communities can return to normal social and economic activity.

Local Leaders Praise COAS Intervention, Say Visit Boosts Confidence

Local government authorities described the visit as timely and reassuring.

Reactions from key community leaders:

• Hon. Barr. John Kyoroh Christopher, Chairman of Jos North Local Government Area, praised Lieutenant General Shaibu for “a prompt and strategic visit that boosts morale and public confidence.”
• Hon. Ladi Dangyok, Councillor for Naraguta ‘B’ Ward, said the intervention was “a strong message of commitment that affected communities desperately needed.”

Both leaders expressed optimism that the presence of top military leadership would accelerate the restoration of calm and strengthen collaboration with local stakeholders.

Military Reaffirms Commitment to Long-Term Peace and Stability in Plateau

The Nigerian Army emphasized that the visit reflects a broader strategic posture:
a unified approach involving state authorities, security agencies, and critical stakeholders working collectively to address security challenges decisively.

Under the COAS, the Army reaffirmed that it will:

• Sustain joint operations with sister agencies
• Strengthen early-warning and intelligence systems
• Enhance civilian-military communication channels
• Reinforce resilience mechanisms in communities
• Ensure Plateau remains secure for residents, businesses, and visitors

The coordinated strategy reflects a long-term commitment to restoring enduring peace—not just temporary calm.

Signed:

APPOLONIA ANELE
Colonel
Acting Director, Army Public Relations
2 April 2026