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The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has emphasized the Nigerian Army’s steadfast dedication to professionalism, flexibility, and improved combat preparedness in safeguarding the country.

In a Christmas and New Year message of good will addressed to officers, soldiers, civilian personnel, and their families, released to defense reporters in Abuja, Shaibu referred to the holiday season as a time for contemplation, reaffirming beliefs, and expressing gratitude.

He pointed out that the fundamental values of Christmas—love, sacrifice, kindness, harmony, and togetherness—are strongly rooted in the principles and customs of the Nigerian Army.

The head of the army stated that the previous year was characterized by major challenges and impressive successes in different areas of operation, as forces kept dealing with complicated and changing security issues throughout the country.

He stated that members of the Nigerian Army have continually shown strength, adherence to rules, and expertise in carrying out their constitutional duties.

The Nigerian Army has maintained outstanding professionalism across all areas of operation in protecting our homeland,” Shaibu stated, crediting the achievements to divine support and the devotion, bravery, and commitment of officers and troops.

He expressed particular recognition to soldiers serving in active zones, many of whom cannot partake in the holiday season with their loved ones because of their responsibilities. The COAS referred to their absence from home as a deep sacrifice that demonstrates their selfless dedication and commitment to the country.

Shaibu pledged to the staff that his leadership would concentrate on boosting professionalism, improving combat preparedness, and maintaining efficient management. He mentioned that more emphasis would still be placed on soldier well-being, acknowledging outstanding performance, and implementing a clear system for rewards and disciplinary actions.

He stated that these initiatives correspond to his leadership approach of converting the Nigerian Army into a well-motivated and skilled unit, capable of functioning effectively in combined and multi-agency settings.

Outside of the battlefield, the army commander recognized the vital role played by the families of officers and soldiers, referring to them as the “unseen strength” supporting the achievements of the service. He reiterated the army’s dedication to enhancing welfare initiatives designed to assist military families.

The Chief of Army Staff also highlighted the significance of teamwork and coordination, praising the sister services, security and intelligence agencies, pertinent ministries and departments, state governors, traditional leaders, and local communities for their ongoing assistance, emphasizing that such collaboration is essential for maintaining peace and security throughout the nation.

Looking towards 2026, Shaibu conveyed confidence, promising that the Nigerian Army would increase its efforts to tackle new security challenges, build on operational successes, enhance intelligence collection and evaluation, and continue improving the spirit and well-being of soldiers.

He called on personnel to maintain discipline, alertness, and a focus on security during the holiday period, while consistently demonstrating the best possible behavior at every moment.

The Chief of Army Staff also recognized the deceased heroes, highlighting that their bravery and final sacrifice have greatly benefited national security. He pledged that the Nigerian Army would remain committed to supporting their families and upholding their memory.

Shaibu thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for his consistent backing of the Nigerian Army.

He mentioned better funding for essential operations, upgraded training facilities, purchase of advanced equipment, improved support programs, and higher hiring targets as major results of the president’s dedication to national security.

He stated that these actions have greatly enhanced the operational preparedness and spirit of the Nigerian Army.

As the holiday season progresses, the COAS extended greetings to officers, soldiers, civilian personnel, and their families, wishing them a Happy Christmas and a successful New Year. He expressed belief that the Nigerian Army would step into 2026 with greater unity, discipline, and determination in serving the country.