The Nigerian Army has been recognised as Africa’s Best National Army in Counter-Terrorism Operations for 2025, earning continental acclaim for its operational successes against terrorism and violent extremism across Nigeria.
According to an official statement signed by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the prestigious recognition was conferred by African Security Watch in acknowledgement of the Nigerian Army’s exceptional operational achievements, strategic leadership and sustained commitment to counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations.
The statement said the award reflects years of intelligence-driven military operations that have significantly degraded terrorist networks, restored security to affected communities and contributed to regional peace and stability, positioning the Nigerian Army as a leading force in counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations on the African continent.
The award was formally presented to the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, at the Army Headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday by Major General Teriworie Gagariga, who had earlier received it on behalf of the Nigerian Army during the African Security Watch Awards Ceremony held in Banjul, The Gambia.
Receiving the award, Lieutenant General Shaibu described the honour as a recognition of the courage, professionalism, resilience and dedication of Nigerian Army officers and soldiers engaged in defending the country’s sovereignty and protecting its citizens.
He said the recognition validates the effectiveness of the Army’s evolving counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency strategy and reinforces its growing reputation as a model for addressing complex security challenges across Africa.
The Chief of Army Staff dedicated the award to officers and soldiers who lost their lives in the line of duty, as well as their families, acknowledging their sacrifices and unwavering support.
He noted that the bravery and commitment of fallen personnel continue to inspire the Nigerian Army’s determination to secure the nation and maintain peace.
Lieutenant General Shaibu reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to sustaining its operational gains through enhanced intelligence-led operations, stronger joint and multi-agency collaboration, continuous training, improved personnel welfare and the acquisition of modern military capabilities.
He said the Nigerian Army would continue its transformation into a more professional, adaptive, combat-ready and resilient force capable of responding effectively to Nigeria’s evolving security challenges while contributing to peace and security across the African continent.
According to African Security Watch, the Nigerian Army earned the continental recognition based on its achievements in coordinated joint operations, intelligence-driven campaigns, civil-military cooperation, force development and capacity building.
The organisation noted that these efforts have significantly weakened terrorist groups, enhanced national and regional security, and established the Nigerian Army as a benchmark for operational effectiveness and professional excellence in counter-terrorism operations across Africa.
