By Nkechi Eze
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has advanced the Nigerian Army’s technological transformation drive with the commissioning of the newly constructed Nigerian Army Space Command Headquarters at Muhammadu Buhari Cantonment, Giri, Abuja.
The facility is expected to strengthen the Army’s capacity to leverage space-based assets and emerging technologies in enhancing intelligence gathering, surveillance, reconnaissance and operational effectiveness.
Shaibu performed the commissioning on Thursday, October 29, 2026, highlighting the strategic importance of the Space Command in positioning the Nigerian Army to respond more effectively to evolving security challenges.
According to an official statement signed by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Appolonia Anele, the COAS explained that integrating space-based assets with drones and other emerging technologies would serve as a force multiplier for military operations.
He noted that the integration would improve situational awareness, support timely operational decisions and reduce troops’ exposure to danger during operations.
The Army Chief stressed that technological advancement remained a critical component of his transformation agenda, adding that the development of modern infrastructure and investment in emerging military capabilities were necessary to build a professional, adaptable, combat-ready and resilient force.
He also urged personnel to ensure proper maintenance of the newly commissioned facility, emphasising that the effective utilisation of advanced military technology must be matched with adequate training, discipline and accountability.
Beyond technological development, Shaibu reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to personnel welfare and family well-being, describing a motivated force as essential to operational effectiveness.
He said investments in accommodation, healthcare and modern infrastructure reflected the Army’s commitment to improving personnel morale and providing a conducive environment for soldiers and their families, in line with his Soldier First mantra and the command philosophy’s pillar of Sound Administration.
The commissioning underscores the Nigerian Army’s continued efforts to strengthen its technological capabilities, improve operational efficiency and enhance its readiness to address contemporary security threats.
