COAS tasks troops on mentorship, confidence in training, combat readiness
By: Zagazola Makama
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has charged soldiers of the Nigerian Army to uphold the highest standards of professionalism by relying on their training, embracing mentorship, and demonstrating confidence during operations.
Lt.-Gen. Shaibu gave the charge while addressing troops at 1 Division during an operational visit, on Wednesday.
He emphasised that proper mentorship and leadership by example remain critical to building a combat-ready Army capable of responding decisively to national security challenges.
“You must be mentored properly to do your job,” the COAS told the troops. “Mentorship means leading by example. Listen to your officers. I have spoken to them they will lead you well so that together we can do our job properly.”
Shaibu assured the troops that the Nigerian Army Headquarters would continue to provide necessary resources, logistics and welfare support to enhance their operational efficiency.
“Note that the resources of the state will be used to provide everything that you require. That will be done,” he said.
The Army Chief urged soldiers to apply the skills acquired during basic and advanced military training, stating that competence in weapon handling and combat manoeuvres is essential for battlefield survival and mission success.
“Put the skills you have been taught to practice whenever you are deployed. Have confidence in your training. On hearing a gunshot, you should dash to the nearest cover and return fire,” he said.
According to him, a soldier must not only fire but “aim and kill” when confronted by hostile threats. He said the Army will intensify emphasis on martial principles, marksmanship, and weapon proficiency drills to enhance the fighting capability of the force.
“You have all gone through this training, and we will continue to deepen it. We are strengthening weapon handling and core combat principles to get the proper soldiers to do their job,” Shaibu added.
The visit also created an opportunity for troops to engage the COAS directly, as he opened the floor for questions and clarifications.
“If you have any questions, feel free to ask me. I am here with some of my staff,” he said, accompanied by the Chiefs of Operations, Logistics, Military Intelligence, and Personnel Management.
The COAS reiterated his commitment to strengthening operational leadership across formations, emphasising that officers must lead with courage and responsibility, while soldiers must uphold discipline and confidence in their operational duties.
