The Nigerian Army has announced plans to increase its number of soldiers and create more divisions to tackle security challenges across the country.
Nigeria’s Army Chief, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, just marked his first full year in office. NigeriaWater Storage
To celebrate, he shared a breakdown of what the military has achieved under his leadership.
In a goodwill message posted on the Nigerian Army’s handle on Wednesday, he said the top achievement is the Federal Government’s approval to grow the Army from eight divisions to 12.
The plan also covers recruiting 28,000 more personnel.
Shaibu said the expansion will help the Army cover more territory, respond faster to threats and better protect vulnerable communities.
General also stated that it will also give the force more capacity to keep up long security operations across the country.
He said his leadership has focused on improving the Army’s performance, its institutions and its professional standards.
The transformation drive rests on five pillars: professional excellence, robust administration, operational readiness, strategic cooperation and exemplary leadership.
He said all of these are built on a “soldier first” culture that puts the welfare, morale, dignity and career growth of personnel first.
General Waidi praised officers and soldiers in operations against terrorism, insurgency, banditry and other threats.
He also honoured those who died in service and wished a speedy recovery to wounded personnel.
He urged troops to stay professional, respect human rights and follow the rules of engagement.
On welfare, he said 489 two-bedroom flats and 192 three-bedroom flats have been delivered to personnel under the Affordable Home Ownership Option for All Soldiers Scheme.
More accommodation is under construction, and existing barracks are being renovated.
Shaibu also thanked soldiers’ families, especially spouses and children, for supporting personnel through deployments and frequent transfers.
He reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to supporting families of fallen soldiers and improving conditions for serving officers.
Shaibu said commanders at every level must make the wellbeing of their men a priority.
He expressed confidence that the Army can overcome its security challenges and meet public expectations, and he urged personnel to build on the year’s gains while fixing weak areas.