As the Nigerian Army marks the first anniversary of Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu’s appointment, his tenure has been shaped by institutional reform, operational change and a renewed focus on the men and women serving in the field.
One year after assuming command of the Nigerian Army, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu’s leadership has been defined by a drive to prepare the force for a changing security environment while placing the welfare, professionalism and readiness of its personnel at the heart of its mission.
Since taking office on 30 October 2025, Lt Gen Shaibu has pursued reforms spanning leadership, military doctrine, force structure, technology and troop welfare. The goal, as reflected in his approach, is to build an Army that is better equipped to meet its responsibilities and more responsive to the demands of operations across the country.
A philosophy for command
At the centre of the Chief of Army Staff’s approach is PROSE: Professional Excellence, Robust Administration, Operational Readiness, Strategic Cooperation and Exemplary Leadership. The principles are closely connected. Professional standards and effective administration support readiness; cooperation strengthens the response to complex threats; and leadership gives the force a clear sense of direction.
The philosophy is underpinned by a Soldier-First commitment. Troop welfare, in this approach, is not separate from operational effectiveness. Training, equipment, medical care, accommodation, timely rotation and morale all contribute to a soldier’s ability to serve under pressure.
That emphasis has accompanied a shift towards more mobile and agile operations. The Army has placed greater importance on initiative and the ability of commanders to respond to changing conditions. Drawing on Mission Command principles, the approach gives subordinate commanders a clear understanding of their objectives while allowing them to adapt their actions within the intent of the mission.
This developing approach has been described as the Shaibu Doctrine and is examined in the forthcoming book The Shaibu Doctrine: Mission Command and the Remaking of Nigeria’s Army at War. Its emphasis is on combining clear direction with disciplined initiative, coordination and accountability.
Expanding and modernising the force
The first year has also brought significant changes to the Army’s structure. With the approval of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the force expanded from eight divisions to twelve—a move intended to improve territorial coverage and strengthen command capacity in areas facing serious security challenges.
Approximately 28,000 additional personnel have also been recruited. New formations and units have been established or operationalised, particularly to improve response times and command-and-control in the North-West and other high-threat areas. The aim is to position the Army to respond more effectively across the country.
Modernisation has focused not only on personnel and structure, but also on the capabilities available to troops and commanders. Investment in drones and other unmanned aerial systems, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, Army Aviation assets and multi-domain integration reflects the changing nature of security operations. Timely information and effective coordination are increasingly important to operations on land and across air, cyber and information environments.
Technology, however, is only part of the equation. Its value depends on the judgement, training and discipline of the personnel who use it. The reforms are intended to strengthen those capabilities and help commanders make better-informed decisions.
Sustaining pressure on armed groups
The Army continues to confront Boko Haram, ISWAP, armed bandit groups and other criminal networks. During Lt Gen Shaibu’s first year, military and non-military efforts have maintained pressure on these groups. Reported outcomes include the neutralisation of high-value targets, the dismantling of camps, the recovery of arms and ammunition, and the rescue of thousands of civilians.
In the North-East, Operation Hadin Kai remains central to the campaign against insurgent groups. In the North-West, Operation Fansan Yamma has formed part of efforts to weaken bandit networks and improve security in affected communities. The gains reported include the degradation of hostile groups, improved stability in some previously contested areas and the gradual return of communities to productive life.
These operations depend on more than military action alone. Cooperation among the Army, other security agencies and government institutions is essential to tackling threats that cross jurisdictions and adapt quickly. Improved intelligence-sharing and stronger coordination are therefore central to a more effective national response.
Lt Gen Shaibu has also emphasised discipline, professionalism and respect for the rule of law. These standards are fundamental to the Army’s responsibilities and to maintaining public confidence in the institution.
Putting soldiers first
The Soldier-First commitment is reflected in efforts to improve the conditions in which personnel serve. Accommodation, medical support, equipment and logistics have featured in the Chief of Army Staff’s agenda, alongside attention to timely rotations and access to care for troops deployed in demanding environments.
New helipad facilities for casualty evacuation are among the measures intended to speed up the transfer of injured personnel for treatment. They also reflect a broader responsibility: soldiers who are asked to serve in dangerous conditions must know that their welfare remains a priority.
Lt Gen Shaibu brings considerable operational experience to the role. His previous appointments include Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai and General Officer Commanding 7 Division, as well as command roles in the North-East. That experience has given him a close understanding of the pressures faced by commanders and troops in the field.
His leadership draws on that background while recognising the need for the Army to keep adapting. The challenge is to build a more capable and responsive force without losing sight of the professionalism and discipline on which public trust depends.
Building on the first year
As Lt Gen Shaibu completes his first year as Chief of Army Staff, the priorities of his tenure are evident: a broader force structure, increased attention to technology and intelligence, a greater emphasis on mobility and initiative, and continued focus on the welfare of personnel.
The task ahead remains considerable. Nigeria’s security challenges demand sustained effort, accountability and continued investment in people and capability. A first anniversary offers an opportunity not only to recognise progress, but also to reflect on the work still required.
The principles of PROSE—professional excellence, robust administration, operational readiness, strategic cooperation and exemplary leadership—provide the framework for that work. Their success will ultimately be measured by the Army’s ability to protect the nation, support lasting peace and serve Nigerians with professionalism.
Congratulations to Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu on the first anniversary of his appointment as Chief of Army Staff. The nation also recognises the officers and soldiers whose service sustains the Army’s operations and reforms. May the coming years build on the progress of this first year and contribute to a safer and more prosperous Nigeria.
– Comrade Usman Okai Austin CCA, a Public Affairs Analyst, writes from Abuja
austinokai@yahoo.com
