Army Chief Calls for Stronger Military Training to Meet Nigeria’s Evolving Security Challenges

By Zainab Uzomah

The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has called for continuous reform of Nigeria’s military training programmes to reflect the country’s rapidly evolving security environment. He made the remark on Wednesday during a visit by the Commandant of the Armed Forces Command and Staff College (AFCSC), Air Vice Marshal Alfred Olugbenga Shogbanmu, at Army Headquarters in Abuja.

Shaibu praised the AFCSC for its central role in developing competent officers for the Armed Forces, noting that Nigeria’s shifting security landscape demands more adaptive and forward-looking military education. He said recent developments, including the creation of the Western Theatre Command, underline the need for a curriculum that prepares officers for emerging threats and enhances joint operational planning.

The Army Chief reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to supporting the College through infrastructure upgrades and capacity building. He described the institution as vital to shaping the quality of staff officers whose skills, he said, directly influence operational effectiveness across the country. He also commended the calibre of officers graduating from the College, stressing their importance in strengthening command, control and coordination within the military.

In his response, Shogbanmu expressed appreciation for the Army’s sustained backing, citing the establishment of a simulation centre and the rehabilitation of training facilities as key improvements that have enhanced learning outcomes. He said the College remains committed to refining its academic and professional programmes to meet contemporary security needs and to deepen cooperation across security agencies.

The visit formed part of ongoing efforts to strengthen inter-service collaboration and advance professional military education nationwide.