Insecurity: COAS Launches Wargaming Hub, Commissions 250 Combat-Ready Officers in Security Emergency Drive
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has intensified efforts to combat insecurity across Nigeria through the commissioning of advanced military facilities and deployment of fresh combat-ready personnel.
During a working visit to the Armed Forces Command and Staff College in Jaji on Saturday, the Army Chief unveiled an Advanced Wargaming Hub designed to enhance tactical planning, simulation capability and operational readiness in the fight against terrorism, banditry and other security threats.
The same day, Lt.-Gen. Shaibu presided over the Passing Out Parade of Executive Commission Course 2/2025 at the Nigerian Army School of Infantry, Jaji, where 250 newly commissioned officers, including 14 women, were deployed to strengthen frontline operations.
The developments form part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s security emergency directive to expand the army’s manpower and stabilise volatile regions nationwide.
**Modern Training Infrastructure**
Welcoming the Army Chief to the college, the Commandant AFCSC, Air Vice Marshal Hassan Idris Alhaji, described the Wargaming Centre as a reflection of the institution’s commitment to producing officers intellectually prepared for command and staff roles across complex security environments.
He noted that the facility will significantly improve personnel capacity to develop modern operational concepts, refine strategic thinking, and enhance combat decision-making essential for today’s dynamic battlefield.
The Commandant commended Lt.-Gen. Shaibu for championing modern training standards and assured that the College would continue supporting the Department of Land Warfare in delivering world-class military education.
**Call for Constitutional Loyalty**
Addressing the newly commissioned officers, the Army Chief warned them to put national interest above personal ambition and remain fully loyal to the Constitution.
He praised their parade performance and weapon handling skills, saying the display reflects rising professional standards at a time when Nigeria demands heightened operational vigilance.
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“Your commission comes at a defining moment in Nigeria’s security history,” Shaibu said. “Terrorism, banditry and other threats demand leadership grounded in courage, ethics and constitutional loyalty.”
He warned the officers to remain apolitical, disciplined, and subordinate to civilian authority, stressing that military professionalism must never be compromised.
**Rigorous Training Regimen**
Earlier, the Commandant of the Infantry School, Major General Frank Etim, disclosed that the training curriculum was redesigned to match emerging threats, with officers 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.
**Strategic Investment in Security**
In his address during the Wargaming Hub commissioning, Lt.-Gen. Shaibu reaffirmed AFCSC’s role as a centre of excellence for developing officers capable of meeting Nigeria’s changing security challenges. He described the centre as a critical asset for sharpening commanders’ ability to plan, rehearse and execute operations with precision.
The Army Chief said investment in advanced simulation technologies is necessary to stay ahead of adversaries and improve the Army’s capability across theatres of operation. He encouraged officers and students to maximise the centre, noting that modern warfare is increasingly fluid, unpredictable and technology-driven.
He reiterated his vision to upgrade training facilities across formations to global standards, adding that AFCSC’s international reputation makes cutting-edge facilities like the Wargaming Centre indispensable.
Lt.-Gen. Shaibu thanked President Tinubu for his continued support to the Nigerian Army’s transformation programme, noting that the Commander-in-Chief’s commitment to national security remains a major driving force behind ongoing reforms.
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 ceremonies were attended by senior military officers, faculty members and officers undergoing various professional courses at the College.
The statement was released by Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele.
_By PRNigeria_
