The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to strengthening security in Niger State through enhanced operations and closer collaboration with state authorities.
Shaibu made the pledge on Tuesday during courtesy visits to former Heads of State, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida and Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, as well as Niger State Governor, Muhammed Bago, in Minna.
In a statement issued by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Col. Appolonia Anele, the army chief said the military was consolidating its resources and deploying modern technology to effectively tackle security challenges confronting the state.
According to him, Niger State holds strategic importance to the Nigerian Army, adding that the military was fully committed to restoring peace and ensuring stability across the state.
“We are bringing together our resources, manpower and expertise to address security threats decisively. Niger State is home to many personnel of the Nigerian Army, and its peace remains a top priority for us,” Shaibu said.
He explained that his visit also included operational tours of army brigades in the state, aimed at identifying security gaps, strengthening troop deployment and providing additional equipment to counter emerging threats.
The army chief noted that these measures were part of a broader strategy to improve operational readiness and protect lives and property.
In their separate responses, former military leaders, Gen. Babangida and Gen. Abubakar, commended Shaibu’s leadership, describing the Nigerian Army as professional, disciplined and effective in its operations.
Speaking on behalf of Governor Bago, the Deputy Governor, Dr Yakubu Garba, expressed appreciation for the Army’s proactive approach to security, assuring continued support from the state government.
“With the partnership and commitment of the Nigerian Army, we are confident that the state will overcome its current security challenges and safeguard the lives and property of our people,” Garba said.
The visits highlight the Nigerian Army’s renewed focus on operational effectiveness, civil-military cooperation and sustained efforts to improve security in Niger State and across the country.