How Nigerian Army is reshaping training, leadership and operational readiness through new facilities and officer development
By: Zagazola Makama
The Nigerian Army is undergoing a comprehensive transformation in training, leadership development and operational preparedness, marked by significant milestones recorded in Jaji, Kaduna State, where landmark events unfolded at the Nigerian Army School of Infantry and the Armed Forces Command and Staff College (AFCSC).
In one weekend, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, presided over the Passing Out Parade of the Executive Commission Course 2/2025 and commissioned the newly constructed Land Warfare Wargaming Centre two major developments seen as reinforcing the Army’s long-term commitment to professionalism, capacity-building and strategic innovation.
At the School of Infantry parade ground, Lt.-Gen. Shaibu urged the newly commissioned officers to embrace the responsibilities of leadership with discipline, courage and unwavering loyalty to Nigeria.
Addressing the fresh officers, he underscored the solemnity of earning the Presidential Commission, describing it as a life-changing transition requiring determination, character and readiness for service across diverse operational theatres.
“Your pips will be unveiled shortly, and you will begin individual and collective journeys filled with opportunities and challenges,” he told the new officers.
“One thing must remain sacrosanct Nigeria must come first in all the decisions you take.”
He charged the officers to rely on the training received in Jaji and to uphold the core values of the Nigerian Army, assuring them that they would not walk alone in difficult times because the Army Officers’ Corps “stands together as comrades and brothers-in-arms.”
Shaibu also emphasized mental and physical preparedness, urging the officers to cultivate sound decision-making skills and always have a plan.
“A bad plan is better than no plan at all,” he said. “Always act with the hope for success and not the fear of failure.”
The COAS used the event to reaffirm the Nigerian Army’s commitment to democratic governance, stressing that subordination to civil authority remains the bedrock of professionalism.
“We must safeguard this constitutional democratic governance that promotes the values of every well-meaning Nigerian,” he said, adding that the Army will remain apolitical in performing its constitutional duties.
He assured citizens that troops across the country were working tirelessly to protect lives, property and the territorial integrity of Nigeria, while supporting other security agencies in internal security operations.
Barely hours after reviewing the parade, the COAS proceeded to commission the newly constructed Land Warfare Wargaming Centre at AFCSC—an advanced simulation hub designed to improve operational planning, mission rehearsal and joint operations training.
Describing the facility as a significant addition to military education infrastructure, Shaibu said the centre symbolised the commitment of the Armed Forces to embracing modern, technology-driven training.
“This state-of-the-art centre deepens officers’ operational planning capabilities and prepares them for contemporary and future challenges,” he said.
He expressed delight at the transformation of the Department of Land Warfare, noting that the steady execution of key projects by previous administrations had fostered a more effective learning environment, with noticeable improvements in student performance.
The COAS thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his sustained support to the Nigerian Army, stressing that the commissioning would not have been possible without the government’s strategic investment in military training and infrastructure.
Shaibu commended the Commandant of AFCSC, AVM HI Alhaji, and the Director of Land Warfare, Brig.-Gen. N.U.C. Ogili, for their leadership in bringing the project to completion.
He urged officers and students of the College to maximise the centre’s potential.
“To the students who are the direct beneficiaries, remain focused and make the best use of these facilities,” he said.
Across the two landmark events, a clear message emerged: the Nigerian Army is investing heavily in human capital, leadership excellence and modern training tools as part of a broader push to transform the force into one that is professional, adaptable and combat-ready.
From the parade ground where new officers took their oath of service, to the high-tech environment of the Wargaming Centre, Lt.-Gen. Shaibu’s message resonated consistently professionalism, loyalty to Nigeria, and readiness for the challenges of modern warfare.
For the cadets and students of Jaji, it is the beginning of a new chapter. For the Nigerian Army, it is another deliberate step toward shaping a force fit for the demands of today and tomorrow.
