By Nkechi Eze
The Chief of Army Staff, Waidi Shaibu, has declared that the ongoing expansion of the Nigerian Army Aviation wing represents a decisive strategic shift that will significantly strengthen the Army’s capacity to confront Nigeria’s rapidly evolving security challenges.
He made this known on Thursday, February 26, 2026, when the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Richard Pheelangwa, paid a strategic visit to the Army Headquarters in Abuja, in a move aimed at reinforcing collaboration and supporting the Army’s modernization agenda.
The Army Chief explained that the development of aviation capability has become a central pillar in the Nigerian Army’s transformation drive, describing it as a critical force multiplier capable of enhancing operational effectiveness across multiple theatres. He emphasized that modern security threats require the seamless integration of advanced aviation platforms and unmanned aerial systems with efficient administrative and operational frameworks.
According to him, the deliberate expansion of Army Aviation assets and the strengthening of Unmanned Aerial Systems have already begun to transform battlefield dynamics by improving response times, enhancing precision in engagements, and providing real-time situational awareness for commanders and troops on the ground. He noted that these capabilities are essential for projecting force, maintaining operational dominance, and ensuring the protection of civilian populations.
Lieutenant General Shaibu stressed that sustaining the gains of the aviation modernization programme will depend heavily on consistent policy backing, predictable funding arrangements, and efficient procurement and logistics systems. He pointed out that reliable resource allocation will guarantee continuity and enable the aviation component to fully deliver on its mandate of supporting ground operations and maintaining operational superiority.
The Army Chief also highlighted the growing infrastructural demands arising from the Federal Government’s approval for increased recruitment into the Nigerian Army under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He said thousands of new personnel currently undergoing training will require adequate accommodation and welfare support, calling for deliberate investments in barracks construction and upgrades to existing facilities.
He noted that improved living conditions for soldiers are essential not only for their welfare but also for maintaining morale, strengthening unit cohesion, and enhancing overall operational performance.
In his remarks, Mr. Pheelangwa described his visit as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen institutional synergy between the Ministry of Defence and the Nigerian Army. He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to supporting the Army’s aviation expansion and broader modernization objectives through improved administrative coordination and effective resource governance.
The Permanent Secretary assured that the Ministry would continue to work towards eliminating bureaucratic bottlenecks and ensuring that policy implementation and resource management are aligned with the Army’s operational priorities.
