COAS Warns Commanders Against Indiscipline, Unprofessional Conduct
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has charged senior Nigerian Army commanders to strengthen strategic leadership, professional competence and operational effectiveness in confronting the country’s evolving security challenges. Shaibu gave the charge on Wednesday while declaring open the Second Senior Command and Leadership Seminar 2026 at Headquarters 1 Division Nigerian Army in Kaduna. The seminar, themed “Strategic Leadership for Effective Command in an Evolving Security Environment,” brings together senior commanders and resource persons to share operational experiences and develop practical approaches to contemporary security challenges. Shaibu said terrorism, insurgency, banditry, organised crime, cyber threats, disruptive technologies and information warfare were reshaping the security environment, requiring commanders to remain innovative, intellectually agile and capable of making sound decisions under pressure.
The Army Chief also warned commanders that military credibility depends on discipline, professionalism, respect for human rights and effective communication. He directed them to ensure strict adherence to Rules of Engagement, protect civilians and maintain accountability at all levels, stressing that poor conduct in the field could damage public confidence in the Army. Shaibu also highlighted the recent expansion of the Nigerian Army from eight to 12 divisions, describing it as both an opportunity and a major leadership responsibility. He urged commanders to turn the expansion into stronger, cohesive and combat-ready formations by developing future leaders, empowering subordinates, encouraging innovation and strengthening engagement with communities and legitimate stakeholders. He expressed confidence that the seminar would improve command, campaign planning and operational performance across the Army.
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