By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Army has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening professional military education through strategic collaboration with global defence institutions, as the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, received a delegation from the Defense Security Cooperation University (DSCU) Nigeria Programme at the Army Headquarters in Abuja on Thursday.
The visit underscored growing cooperation between the Nigerian Army and the US-based defence institution in advancing military professionalism, defence governance, and institutional capacity development within the Service.
In an official statement signed by the Acting Director Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the Army Chief reiterated that professional military education remains a vital pillar in building a modern, adaptive and knowledge-driven force capable of addressing Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.
Lieutenant General Shaibu noted that the Nigerian Army will continue to subscribe to relevant courses offered by the Defense Security Cooperation University, particularly programmes designed to strengthen defence management, logistics systems, and institutional capacity across the Service.
He explained that exposing officers and personnel to specialised training programmes and international academic platforms is critical to sharpening strategic thinking and improving institutional competence within the military hierarchy.
According to him, such engagements also play a vital role in strengthening defence management practices while equipping officers with the knowledge required to effectively manage the complex operational and administrative responsibilities associated with contemporary military environments.
“Professional military education remains a cornerstone in building a modern and adaptive fighting force capable of confronting the myriad of security challenges confronting the nation,” the Army Chief stated.
He added that the Nigerian Army remains committed to leveraging global partnerships and academic engagements that enhance operational efficiency, institutional development, and long-term strategic planning within the Service.
Earlier in his remarks, the leader of the delegation, retired Major General Miguel Casteyanoss, explained that the Defence Security Cooperation University’s engagement with the Nigerian Army is primarily focused on strengthening institutional capacity and helping partner nations sustain and replicate military capabilities over time.
Major General Casteyanoss noted that the university provides specialised courses and advisory support designed to enhance defence governance, logistics management, and policy development within partner militaries.
He further disclosed that the ongoing collaboration between DSCU and the Nigerian Army also includes initiatives aimed at strengthening institutional systems such as material readiness, reporting structures, and life-cycle management frameworks.
According to him, these initiatives are designed to support partner nations in building resilient defence institutions capable of sustaining operational capabilities and maintaining high professional standards.
The retired US Army General expressed confidence that the continued participation of Nigerian Army personnel in DSCU programmes will further reinforce professional standards, institutional resilience, and long-term capability development within the Nigerian Army.
The visit marks another step in the Nigerian Army’s ongoing efforts to deepen international defence partnerships while investing in knowledge-driven reforms that enhance operational effectiveness and institutional growth.
