President Bola Ahmed Tinubu renewed his administration's "unwavering commitment to the welfare, professionalism and operational effectiveness of the Nigerian Armed Forces" at the opening of the Chief of Army Staff Annual Conference 2025 in Lagos.
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu paid "glowing tribute to serving and retired senior military officers" whose "sacrifices, leadership and institutional memory" have shaped the Army.
Defence Minister Gen. Christopher Musa (retired) called it a "vital strategic forum for reviewing operational posture, assessing readiness and aligning the Nigerian Army's future direction with national security priorities."
He urged commanders to ensure conference outcomes "translate into concrete operational actions and measurable results on the battlefield."
Chief of Army Staff Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu expressed "profound appreciation to the President for his sustained political will and strategic support," highlighting gains in personnel welfare, equipment modernisation, training and institutional reforms.
He said the army remains "at the forefront of national efforts to combat terrorism, insurgency, banditry and other forms of criminality" and is becoming "a more professional, adaptive and technology-driven force."
Lagos Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu described security as "a fundamental prerequisite for development" and praised Headquarters 81 Division for its contributions to peace and stability in the state.
The opening ceremony was attended by service chiefs, former chiefs, senior military officers, heads of security agencies, diplomats, and dignitaries.
Organisers said the conference will deliberate on operational, administrative, and strategic issues to strengthen the army's capacity to discharge its constitutional responsibilities and protect the nation.
