COAS Unveils Digital Transformation Agenda to Strengthen Nigerian Army Operations
The Nigerian Army has reaffirmed its commitment to digital transformation and the adoption of a “smart soldier” concept as part of efforts to enhance operational effectiveness and overall combat readiness.
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, made this known on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at a seminar organised by the Army Headquarters Department of Army Transformation and Innovation. The event was held at the Nigerian Army School of Military Engineering (NASME) Officers’ Mess, NASME Barracks, Makurdi.
The seminar focused on digital transformation and the smart soldier concept, while also addressing critical issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and drug and substance abuse within the force.
Represented by the Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, Major General Moses Gara, the COAS said the Army’s digital drive goes beyond conventional combat applications, noting that digital tools now have wide-ranging relevance across an increasingly digitised battlespace.
He explained that leveraging digital technology aligns with his command philosophy of transforming the Nigerian Army into “a more professional, adaptable, combat-ready and resilient force capable of decisively discharging its constitutional responsibilities within a joint and multi-agency environment.”
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According to him, the evolving nature of security threats demands a holistic response that integrates technology, human capacity development and administrative efficiency. He identified PTSD and drug abuse as twin impediments to operational effectiveness, warning that both issues undermine combat readiness if left unaddressed.
The Army chief commended the Department of Army Transformation and Innovation for organising the seminar, describing it as a demonstration of the service’s unwavering commitment to preparedness and robust administration.
Earlier in his remarks, the Chief of Transformation and Innovation (Army), Major General Olusegun Abai, said the themes of the seminar were timely, given the psychological, physical and technological demands of modern warfare. He was represented by the Deputy Chief of Transformation, Major General Ime Bassey.
Abai noted that the seminar was in line with the COAS’s philosophy of placing the soldier at the centre of reforms, equipping personnel with cutting-edge technology while also safeguarding them against mental and physical threats.
He said the programme was deliberately designed to confront the rising cases of PTSD and drug abuse in the Army through sustained education, early intervention strategies, counselling and strengthened support systems.
The event featured lectures delivered by seasoned resource persons, an interactive session with participants, presentation of souvenirs and group photographs, underscoring the Army’s renewed focus on innovation and personnel welfare as critical pillars of its transformation agenda.
By PRNigeria
