Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt Gen Waidi Shaibu, has been commended for what the Centre for Public Integrity (CPI) described as significant gains in military operations against terrorism and banditry, as well as improved civil-military relations.
CPI, a pro-democracy civil rights movement, gave the commendation in a statement issued on Sunday and signed by its convener, Dr John Samuel Nang.
The group said the Nigerian Army under COAS Shaibu’s leadership had demonstrated improved professionalism and strategic coordination in tackling terrorism, particularly in the North-East and North-West.
It said troops had intensified operations against Boko Haram, ISWAP and armed bandits, resulting in the dismantling of some criminal enclaves and the neutralisation of key commanders.
According to CPI, the military’s operations had also helped restore confidence among some displaced communities, with residents beginning to return to their homes and farms.
The group said Shaibu’s leadership had also brought a new approach to civil-military relations, with greater emphasis on community engagement and adherence to human rights and rules of engagement.
Nang said the Army’s Civil-Military Affairs department had strengthened its engagement with communities through dialogues, medical outreaches and other initiatives.
‘Today, citizens no longer view the soldier as an object of fear, but as a protector and partner in peacebuilding,’ he said.
CPI further praised Shaibu for strengthening collaboration between the Army and other security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and local vigilante groups.
The group said improved inter-agency cooperation had enhanced intelligence gathering and the response to security threats.
‘The era of inter-agency rivalry is rapidly giving way to strategic synergy. This unified front among our security agencies has proven to be the nightmare of criminal elements,’ Nang stated.
CPI urged Nigerians to support the security agencies by providing timely and credible intelligence to help protect communities and strengthen national security.
‘Security is a collective responsibility. As the military under Lt Gen Waidi Shaibu continues to deliver on its mandate, we call on all patriotic citizens to support our troops, respect the law, and stand united against those who threaten the peace and sovereignty of our nation,’ Nang said.