Tinubu pledges continued support as army conference opens in Lagos

President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the welfare, professionalism and operational effectiveness of Nigeria’s armed forces at the opening of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Annual Conference 2025 in Lagos.

Speaking through Vice-President Kashim Shettima at the event, Mr Tinubu paid tribute to serving and retired senior military officers, saying their leadership, sacrifices and institutional memory had continued to shape the Nigerian Army. He described the gathering of former service chiefs and senior officers as a reflection of the military’s enduring heritage and professionalism.

The president praised officers and soldiers for what he described as their courage and patriotism, noting that their role in defending Nigeria’s sovereignty and unity would remain a lasting part of the country’s history. He said the annual conference offered an important opportunity for reflection and strategic review, particularly as the military responds to evolving security challenges at home and abroad.

Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, retired General Christopher Musa, described the conference as a key forum for assessing the army’s operational readiness and aligning its future direction with national security priorities. He stressed the need for joint operations, inter-agency cooperation and a “whole-of-society” approach to tackling insecurity, urging senior commanders to ensure that discussions translate into practical results on the ground.

In his welcome address, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, thanked the president for what he called sustained political and strategic support for the army, especially in the areas of personnel welfare, equipment modernisation, training and institutional reform. He also acknowledged the role of the National Assembly in providing legislative and budgetary backing, which he said had improved operational readiness.

General Shaibu said the Nigerian Army remained at the forefront of efforts to combat terrorism, insurgency, banditry and other forms of criminality, adding that it was undergoing reforms to become a more professional and technology-driven force capable of addressing both conventional and asymmetric threats.

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu described security as essential for development and praised the army’s role in maintaining national unity and supporting democratic governance. He also commended the army’s 81 Division for its contribution to peace and stability in Lagos State, pledging continued support from the state government.

The opening ceremony was attended by senior government officials, service chiefs, former chiefs of defence and army staff, senior serving and retired officers, heads of security agencies, diplomats and other guests.

The COAS Annual Conference 2025 is expected to focus on key operational, administrative and strategic issues aimed at strengthening the Nigerian Army’s capacity to carry out its constitutional responsibilities.