By Nkechi Eze
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has charged the Combat Support Arms of the Nigerian Army to intensify efforts toward building a self-reliant, capable and mission-focused force equipped to effectively address the nation’s evolving security challenges.
The COAS gave the charge on Tuesday at the opening ceremony of the 2026 Combat Support Arms Training Week held at Ibom Hall, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, where military leaders, researchers, academics and other stakeholders gathered to deliberate on strategies for strengthening operational effectiveness through innovation and collaboration.
Represented by the Chief of Personnel Management, Major General Adewale Adekeye, Lieutenant General Shaibu commended the Combat Support Arms for the significant strides recorded in innovation, research, practical problem-solving and the domestication of relevant technologies. He noted that such achievements demonstrate the Nigerian Army’s commitment to developing indigenous capabilities and sustainable solutions tailored to the country’s unique security environment.
The Army Chief stated that the theme of the Training Week, “Strengthening Combat Support Arms Adaptability and Resilience through Indigenous Innovations for Integrated Operational Support within a Joint and Multi-Agency Framework,” aligns with his Command Philosophy of transforming the Nigerian Army into a more professional, adaptable, combat-ready and resilient force.
He urged participants to leverage the forum to generate practical, solution-driven outcomes capable of enhancing both ongoing and future military operations, stressing that innovation and adaptability remain critical to success in contemporary warfare.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Chief of Military Intelligence (Army), Major General Risku Hedima, described the Combat Support Arms as indispensable enablers of operational success across the Nigerian Army’s theatres of operation. He noted that the annual Training Week serves as an important platform for sharing operational experiences, reviewing emerging challenges and strengthening synergy among the various Corps.
Major General Hedima emphasized the strategic importance of indigenous technological innovation in national defence, observing that locally developed solutions are essential for enhancing operational resilience, adaptability and sustainability. He also applauded the participation of students from reputable schools across Akwa Ibom State, describing them as future leaders and potential contributors to national development and security.
Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, the Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Captain Iniobong Ekong (Rtd), commended the Armed Forces of Nigeria for their unwavering sacrifices in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
He noted that success in modern military operations extends beyond combat power, requiring robust support systems, technological innovation and effective collaboration among security and government institutions. The Governor described the theme of the Training Week as timely and strategic, highlighting the growing need for indigenous innovation, stronger partnerships and enhanced institutional cooperation in addressing emerging security threats.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Akwa Ibom State Government to supporting initiatives that promote peace, professionalism and national development.
A major highlight of the opening ceremony was the keynote lecture delivered by Professor Okey Ikechukwu, mni, titled “Combat Support Arms and Indigenous Innovations for Sustainable Operational and Logistics Independence.” The lecture underscored the critical role of homegrown solutions in strengthening military logistics, operational efficiency and long-term strategic autonomy.
The event also featured a Research and Development Exhibition and Static Display, showcasing innovative technologies and capabilities developed by the Combat Support Arms in support of military operations and national security objectives.
The opening ceremony attracted key stakeholders from the science and technology community, research and development institutions, academia and the student community. The event concluded with a group photograph, formally heralding the commencement of the week-long programme aimed at advancing innovation, resilience and integrated operational support within the Nigerian Army.
