By ZAKAA LAZARUS
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has described ongoing military operations on the Plateau as central to Nigeria’s national stability, urging troops of 3 Division, Nigerian Army, to remain disciplined, professional and resolute in the discharge of their duties.
In a statement by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the Army Chief gave the charge on Monday, January 19, 2026, during an operational visit to the 3 Division Headquarters in Jos, Plateau State.
Addressing officers and soldiers, Lieutenant General Shaibu emphasised that discipline remains the cornerstone of military service, stressing that enlistment into the Nigerian Army is voluntary and anchored on the responsibility of defending the nation’s territorial integrity.
The COAS said he had received detailed briefings from the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 3 Division, on both operational activities and welfare challenges confronting troops, adding that the most critical issues had been addressed.
According to him, Army Headquarters is providing the necessary combat enablers to ensure that personnel are properly equipped to carry out their responsibilities. “The welfare of our troops remains a top priority. We will continue to provide the enabling environment for you to do your job properly,” he assured.
Lieutenant General Shaibu urged young soldiers to respect the chain of command and draw mentorship from their superiors, noting that officers are responsible for guiding them towards professional excellence and career development.
He further charged troops to maintain high levels of physical fitness and mental alertness, explaining that deliberate measures have been instituted to prepare personnel for the demands of military service.
On leadership, the Army Chief described Senior Non-Commissioned Officers as the critical link between officers and soldiers, urging them to provide effective middle-level leadership and guidance across the ranks.
Addressing the security situation in Plateau State, he described the environment as unique, assuring troops that Operation ENDURING PEACE (OPEP) is being properly guided and supported to achieve its operational objectives.
He also encouraged personnel to channel complaints and grievances through appropriate military channels, assuring them of prompt attention by the authorities.
Reaffirming the Army’s appreciation of troop sacrifices, Lieutenant General Shaibu urged officers and soldiers to remain proud of their service and to uphold professionalism, honour and global best practices in all operations.
As part of efforts to improve troop welfare, the COAS commissioned two blocks of 30 flats for Non-Commissioned Officers and a separate block of residential accommodation for officers at Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, Jos, further demonstrating the Army leadership’s commitment to improved living standards for personnel.
