State of Emergency: COAS Unveils 250 New Combat-Ready Officers
Amid the Federal Government’s security emergency drive, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has ordered newly commissioned officers to put national interest above personal ambition and remain fully loyal to the Constitution.
Shaibu delivered the charge on Saturday during the Passing Out Parade of Executive Commission Course 2/2025 at the Nigerian Army School of Infantry, Jaji.
He said the fresh intake forms a key part of President Bola Tinubu’s directive to expand the army’s manpower, strengthen frontline deployments and stabilise volatile regions nationwide.
The Army Chief praised the officers’ parade performance and weapon handling skills, saying the display reflects rising professional standards at a time when the country demands “heightened operational vigilance.”
He warned the officers to remain apolitical, disciplined, and subordinate to civilian authority, stressing that military professionalism must never be compromised.
“Your commission comes at a defining moment in Nigeria’s security history,” Shaibu said.
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A statement by Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Lt.-Col. Appolonia Anele.
“Terrorism, banditry and other threats demand leadership grounded in courage, ethics and constitutional loyalty.”
Earlier, the Commandant of the Infantry School, Maj.-Gen. Frank Etim, said the training curriculum was redesigned to match emerging threats, with 250 officers — including 14 women — undergoing intensive courses covering counterterrorism, counterinsurgency, leadership, physical conditioning and tactical command.
He said the course instilled key values of loyalty, discipline, courage and integrity, essential for officers expected to lead operations in complex environments.
Awards were presented to officers who excelled in academics, field exercises and leadership performance.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its backing for the Federal Government’s security emergency plan, promising continued large-scale recruitment, rigorous training and targeted deployments across all theatres of operation.
The statement was released by Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Lt.-Col. Appolonia Anele.
By PRNigeria
