The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, calls on Nigerian Army troops to strengthen the protection of critical national assets, stressing that strong security is essential for economic growth and national stability. He gives the charge during a working visit to the Headquarters of the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army in Port Harcourt.
According to Mediaplusng.com, the Army Chief addresses officers and soldiers on their operational duties, urging them to remain professional, alert, and committed to safeguarding key infrastructure across their areas of responsibility. He explains that oil and gas facilities, power installations, transport corridors, and other strategic assets are vital to Nigeria’s economy and must be protected from sabotage, vandalism, and criminal attacks.
Lieutenant General Shaibu notes that threats to national infrastructure directly affect livelihoods, government revenue, and investor confidence. He reminds troops that their role goes beyond routine security operations, adding that effective protection of assets supports national development and long-term economic stability. He urges commanders at all levels to improve coordination, intelligence gathering, and rapid response to security threats.
As reported by Mediaplusng.com, the Army Chief also reassures personnel that troop welfare remains a top priority under his leadership. He says the Nigerian Army continues to address challenges affecting soldiers and their families, particularly in the areas of accommodation, working conditions, and general well-being.
During the visit, Lieutenant General Shaibu explains that approved construction, renovation, and completion of ongoing accommodation projects are underway within the 6 Division. He says these efforts aim to improve living conditions for officers and soldiers, boost morale, and enhance operational effectiveness. He adds that a comfortable and well-supported soldier is better prepared to carry out demanding security duties.
The COAS further highlights ongoing initiatives to support soldiers’ families, including improved access to education for their children. He notes that welfare policies are designed to reduce stress on personnel and allow them to focus fully on their core responsibility of defending the nation. He assures troops that the Army leadership remains committed to listening to their concerns and finding practical solutions.
Lieutenant General Shaibu commends officers and men of the 6 Division for their dedication to duty, especially in a region that plays a critical role in Nigeria’s economy. He acknowledges the challenges of operating in complex security environments and encourages troops to remain disciplined, resilient, and guided by the rules of engagement.
He also calls for stronger civil-military cooperation, stressing that collaboration with local communities helps in gathering timely intelligence and building trust. According to him, community support is key to identifying threats early and preventing attacks on national assets.
The Army Chief urges commanders to continue mentoring younger soldiers and maintaining high professional standards. He says leadership at all levels must lead by example to sustain public confidence in the Nigerian Army.
The visit forms part of Lieutenant General Shaibu’s ongoing assessment of formations and units across the country. The engagements, he says, are meant to review operational readiness, address welfare concerns, and reinforce the Army’s commitment to national security.
He concludes by reaffirming that the Nigerian Army remains resolute in its mandate to protect Nigeria’s territorial integrity, secure critical infrastructure, and support national development. He assures Nigerians that the Army will continue to adapt its strategies to emerging threats while prioritising the welfare and professionalism of its personnel.
