COAS Identifies Major Security Threats at Troop Graduation

On Friday, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, the Chief of Army Staff of the Nigerian Army, addressed the graduation of 1,182 Special Forces troops from the 10th batch of the Advanced Infantry Training Programme.

He identified terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, separatist agitations, and transnational organized crime as the primary security threats facing Nigeria. Shaibu urged the graduating soldiers to uphold human rights and the rule of law during their operations.

The six-month training, conducted at the Nigerian Army Training Centre in Kachia, Kaduna State, aimed to enhance the army's counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism capabilities. He noted that the program is crucial for producing a professional and resilient force.

The graduation coincided with the army's expansion following President Bola Tinubu's approval for new divisions and formations. Maj.-Gen.

Valentine Okoro, Chief of Training (Army), described the event as a milestone in building a skilled military force, highlighting the advanced tactical skills acquired by the participants.