Kaduna:The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has called on newly inaugurated officers of the Nigerian Army to exhibit courage, competence, discipline, and sound judgment in fulfilling their duties. This directive was given at the passing-out parade for 183 cadets of the Direct Short Service Commission (DSSC) Course 29/2026 held at the Nigerian Army School of Infantry in Jaji Military Cantonment, Kaduna State.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the six-month intensive military training has equipped the cadets with the necessary skills to take on leadership roles within the Nigerian Army. These officers are being commissioned during a period when Nigeria is facing complex and evolving security challenges, such as terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, communal violence, and separatist violence.
Shaibu emphasized the need for officers who are adaptable, intellectually agile, and professionally competent to make sound decisions under pressure. He encouraged the officers to maintain their combat skills, physical fitness, and tactical competence throughout their careers. The COAS also highlighted the importance of distinguishing between rank and leadership, urging officers to lead by example and prioritize the welfare of their troops.
The Federal Government’s decision to expand the Nigerian Army from eight to 12 divisions and recruit an additional 28,000 soldiers places an increased responsibility on these officers to justify the nation’s investment. Shaibu advised the officers to embrace continuous learning and emerging military technologies, while also emphasizing the significance of joint operations with other security agencies to achieve national security objectives.
Lt.-Gen. Shaibu congratulated the officers and their families on the successful completion of their training and expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his strategic guidance and support. He reminded the officers that their journey has just begun and urged them to accept responsibility, find solutions, and earn the trust of those they lead.