By Nkechi Eze
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu NAM, has assured Nigerians that the Nigerian Army will record enhanced operational effectiveness in tackling crimes and other security threats across the country in 2026, with the acquisition of additional combat enablers and strengthened operational capacity.
The assurance was given on Saturday, 7 February 2026, during the West African Social Activities (WASA) 2025 of the Nigerian Army Finance Corps (NAFC), held at the Headquarters Command Finance Office Football Field, Arakan Cantonment, Apapa, Lagos.
In an official signed statement, the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 81 Division Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Colonel Musa Yahaya, disclosed that the COAS, who was represented at the event by the Commander Corps of Signals, Major General MT Abdullahi, said the Nigerian Army is expected to take delivery of additional helicopters, unmanned aerial systems, and other critical combat enablers in 2026. According to him, these acquisitions are aimed at further strengthening the Army’s operational effectiveness nationwide.
Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu explained that the planned upgrades are firmly anchored on his Command Philosophy, which seeks to transform the Nigerian Army into a more professional, adaptable, combat-ready, and resilient force capable of responding decisively to evolving security challenges.
The COAS commended the Nigerian Army Finance Corps for its pivotal role in shaping, managing, and sustaining the financial architecture of the Nigerian Army, despite prevailing resource constraints. He noted that the effectiveness of military operations is closely tied to sound financial management and logistics support, and praised the Corps for consistently delivering on its mandate.
He also expressed appreciation to officers, soldiers, as well as their wives and families, for their resilience, sacrifices, and unwavering support, describing them as a vital pillar of the Army’s strength and morale.
Earlier in his remarks, the Chief of Accounts and Budget (Army), Major General TT Siddick, described WASA as a thanksgiving and socio-cultural event that reflects unity, tradition, and collective pride within the Nigerian Army. He rated the performance of the Nigerian Army Finance Corps in the past year as 99.9 per cent successful, highlighting its achievements in ensuring the timely payment of salaries, allowances, and operational allowances, particularly for troops deployed on the frontlines.
The colourful event featured rich cultural displays, comedy performances, tug-of-war competitions, and the presentation of Best Soldier Awards, adding vibrancy and camaraderie to the celebration.
WASA 2025 was well attended by senior military officers, heads of security agencies, traditional rulers, and other government functionaries, underscoring its significance as both a cultural and institutional event within the Nigerian Army.
