COAS CALLS FOR COHESION AND INCLUSION AT MEETING WITH NDA 38 REGULAR COURSE EXECUTIVES

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has urged members of the 38 Regular Course Association of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) to remain united, inclusive and purpose-driven as they continue to contribute to Nigeria’s national development.

The call was made on Thursday, 22nd January 2026, when the COAS received the Association’s Executive Committee, led by Rear Admiral Samuel Agada (rtd), during a courtesy visit to the Army Headquarters in Abuja.

In a statement released by the Acting Director Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the Army said the COAS congratulated the newly elected executives and underscored the importance of cohesion and inclusiveness in advancing the Association’s objectives. According to the statement, Lieutenant General Shaibu also highlighted ongoing reforms within the Nigerian Army aimed at strengthening operational effectiveness, deepening professionalism and improving troop welfare.

The statement further noted that the COAS disclosed plans to expand the Army’s strength and establish additional depots as part of broader efforts to respond more effectively to evolving security challenges across the country. He emphasized that these initiatives are designed to enhance readiness, logistics and sustained operational capacity nationwide.
Lieutenant General Shaibu also charged members of the 38 Regular Course to serve as worthy ambassadors of the Nigerian Army, leveraging their collective experience and influence to engage ministries, institutions and other stakeholders in addressing national challenges. He paid tribute to deceased members of the Association, describing them as officers of exceptional character whose service and sacrifice contributed meaningfully to national unity and stability.

Earlier, the President of the Association, Rear Admiral Samuel Agada (rtd), expressed appreciation for the Nigerian Army’s continued support and drew attention to challenges confronting members, particularly in the area of healthcare. He appealed for institutional support in strengthening the Association’s financial base and encouraged serving and retired Armed Forces personnel to prepare early for retirement by building sustainable financial foundations.