NIGERIAN ARMY SETS BOLD REFORM AGENDA AS COAS CLOSES 2025 ANNUAL CONFERENCE IN LAGOS

The Nigerian Army has outlined an ambitious roadmap for operational excellence, institutional reform and enhanced troop welfare following the conclusion of the 2025 Chief of Army Staff Annual Conference in Lagos.

Bringing the four-day strategic gathering to a close at Nebo Hall, Abalti Barracks, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General W. Shaibu, highlighted the conference as a critical platform for evaluating the Army’s performance in 2025 and consolidating plans for the year ahead. Senior commanders, policymakers and stakeholders engaged in extensive deliberations on administration, training and operations, producing what was described as one of the most robust exchanges in the history of the conference.

Central to the post-conference direction is a renewed alignment with the Chief of Army Staff’s command philosophy, which focuses on transforming the Nigerian Army into a more professional, adaptable, combat ready and resilient force capable of operating effectively within joint and multi agency environments. To this end, the Army is set to implement sweeping reforms in training, operations, logistics and administration.

A comprehensive overhaul of training curricula across Nigerian Army schools will commence immediately, driven by the belief that realistic, mission focused training directly impacts operational success. The Department of Training at Army Headquarters will spearhead a holistic review process, with particular emphasis on Special Forces training and the expanded employment of Army Aviation assets. Targeted interventions are also planned to strengthen the capacity of the Special Forces School to deliver optimal outcomes.

Security briefings presented during the conference underscored the growing complexity of Nigeria’s operational environment, shaped by evolving internal threats, regional instability and global shifts in the character of warfare. In response, the Army will intensify investments in intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition and reconnaissance capabilities, alongside cyber operations. Innovation and technological integration are expected to feature prominently across all levels of command, supported by continued collaboration with the nation’s political leadership on defence procurement.

Troop welfare emerged as a major pillar of the Army’s forward strategy. Addressing long standing accommodation shortages, the Army has committed to completing all ongoing residential projects and initiating new housing developments across formations nationwide. Barracks renovation programmes will also be expanded as an interim measure, while post service housing remains a key priority.

As part of this welfare drive, new housing and commercial infrastructure projects are scheduled for commissioning in Ibadan, including the Affordable Home Ownership Option for All Soldiers at Akobo and a post-service housing shopping complex in Eleyele. These initiatives are designed to ease both in-service and retirement housing challenges faced by personnel.

The conference concluded with commendations for the planning and coordination team, as well as participants whose extensive contributions are expected to shape policy and operational decisions in the coming year. A formal summary of resolutions is to be finalized and circulated for implementation.

The Nigerian Army also reaffirmed its’ commitment to national security and constitutional responsibilities, acknowledging the sustained support of the President and Commander-in-Chief. With the conference officially closed, attention now shifts to upcoming milestones, including housing project commissions and the passing-out parade of new recruits in Osogbo, as the Army positions itself for the challenges of 2026.