CPI Lauds Army Chief for Security Progress in Nigeria

The Centre for Public Integrity (CPI), a pro-democracy civil rights group, commended Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), for the Nigerian Army's notable achievements in security within Northern Nigeria. In a statement released on Sunday, September 13, 2026, by the group's convener, Dr. John Samuel Nang, the CPI recognized what it termed a "remarkable and historic transformation" under Lt. Gen. Shaibu's leadership.

The statement highlighted measurable improvements in counter-terrorism efforts and a positive shift in the relationship between soldiers and civilians. The Army has reportedly made significant strides in dismantling terrorist infrastructure in the North-East and North-West, leading to a decrease in kidnappings, highway ambushes, and raids that previously hindered trade and movement.

Furthermore, the CPI noted a fundamental change in soldiers' interactions with communities, emphasizing greater empathy and adherence to human rights standards. Dr. Nang also praised improved coordination between the Army and other security agencies, which has enhanced intelligence sharing and response times to security incidents.