President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to the welfare, professionalism and operational effectiveness of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

The President gave the assurance on Monday at the opening ceremony of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Annual Conference 2025, held in Lagos.

Speaking through the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, President Tinubu paid glowing tribute to serving and retired senior military officers, noting that their sacrifices, leadership and institutional memory have continued to shape the Nigerian Army. He described the gathering of elder statesmen and former Service Chiefs as a testament to the enduring heritage, professionalism and fighting spirit of the Armed Forces.

The President commended the courage and patriotism of officers and soldiers who consistently place national duty above personal comfort, stressing that their sacrifices in defence of Nigeria’s sovereignty and unity would remain indelibly etched in the nation’s history. He noted that the Annual Conference provides a critical platform for reflection, strategic evaluation and continuous improvement in the Army’s training, administration and operations amid evolving security challenges.

Also speaking, the Minister of Defence, retired General Christopher Musa, OFR, described the conference as a vital strategic forum for reviewing operational posture, assessing readiness and aligning the Nigerian Army’s future direction with national security priorities. He emphasized the importance of joint operations, inter-agency collaboration and a whole-of-society approach to addressing Nigeria’s complex security challenges.

In his welcome address, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, NAM, expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for his sustained political will and strategic support, particularly in the areas of personnel welfare, equipment modernization, training and institutional reforms. He also acknowledged the legislative and budgetary support of the National Assembly, which he said has significantly enhanced the Army’s operational readiness nationwide.

The COAS reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s leading role in combating terrorism, insurgency, banditry and other forms of criminality, adding that the force is transforming into a more professional, adaptive and technology-driven institution capable of addressing both conventional and asymmetric threats.

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, described security as a prerequisite for development and commended the Nigerian Army for its role in preserving national unity and democratic governance. He particularly lauded the Headquarters 81 Division, Nigerian Army, for its contributions to peace and stability in Lagos State and pledged the continued support of the state government.

The opening ceremony was attended by senior government officials, Service Chiefs, former Chiefs of Defence Staff and Chiefs of Army Staff, senior military officers serving and retired, heads of security agencies, diplomats and other distinguished guests.

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