Lt.-Gen. Wahidi Shaibu, the newly appointed Chief of Army Staff (COAS), has vowed to prioritize the welfare of soldiers and their families under his leadership. Speaking during his first operational visit to Borno State at the headquarters of Operation Hadin Kai in Maiduguri, Shaibu emphasized continuity and improvement on the “soldier-first” doctrine.

Key points from his address:

• Shaibu acknowledged the challenges troops face and praised their dedication in securing the Northeast.
• He promised that soldiers’ allowances and benefits would be paid on time to boost morale.
• Welfare measures will extend beyond the battlefield to support soldiers’ families.
• He hinted at imminent changes in the appointment of commanders, stressing that capable officers will be assigned to ensure fairness and operational effectiveness.
• Shaibu underlined that morale and fighting power are critical to achieving the Army’s objectives.

The COAS assured that his administration would focus on fairness, justice, and timely provision of entitlements, reinforcing the commitment to improving conditions for personnel across the Nigerian Army.