Nigerian Army Chief Urges New Officers to Lead Effectively

Lt Gen Waidi Shaibu, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), addressed newly commissioned officers of the Direct Short Service Course (DSSC) 29/2026 at the Nigerian Army School of Infantry Parade Ground in Jaji, Kaduna State. He emphasized the need for purposeful and professional leadership as the Nigerian Army undergoes significant expansion, following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s approval to increase the Army from eight to 12 divisions and recruit an additional 28,000 soldiers.

Shaibu highlighted that merely increasing manpower would not enhance security outcomes without competent leadership. He urged the new officers to lead by example, prioritize mission accomplishment and troop welfare, and maintain combat readiness across various specializations.

The COAS also stressed the importance of developing tactical competence and embracing innovation in military operations. He called for effective cooperation with other security agencies to address Nigeria's complex security challenges.

The commissioning of DSSC 29/2026 follows six months of intensive military training, adding a new cadre of trained officers to the Army.