By Sumaila Ogbaje
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has pledged N25 million to the Emergency Health Fund for the Course 39 NDA United Welfare Association (UWA).
Shaibu made the pledge on Thursday when the association’s Executive Committee, led by its President, retired AVM Ibikunle Daramola, paid him a courtesy visit at the Army Headquarters, Abuja.
This is contained in a statement by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Col. Appolonia Anele, on Thursday in Abuja.
He reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to the welfare of serving and retired personnel, describing veterans’ welfare as an enduring institutional responsibility.
The COAS said sustained engagement with retired officers remained vital to strengthening institutional memory, mentorship and continuity within the Nigerian Army.
He said the wealth of operational experience, professional knowledge and leadership expertise of veterans remained valuable in addressing contemporary security challenges.
Shaibu also outlined ongoing reforms aimed at building a more professional, adaptable, technologically enabled and combat-ready Nigerian Army.
He said the expansion of the Army to 12 divisions and the integration of 28,000 recruits would enhance its operational reach and responsiveness nationwide.
According to him, the recruits are being trained through regional training depots in Zaria, Osogbo and Amasiri Edda.
The Army Chief said a revised training curriculum was also being implemented, with greater emphasis on marksmanship, physical fitness and fieldcraft.
He said the measures were designed to produce troops capable of operating effectively in increasingly complex security environments.
Shaibu said the Army was also transitioning towards multi-domain operations through the integration of space, cyber and non-kinetic capabilities.
He added that Army aviation and unmanned aerial systems were also being developed to enhance situational awareness, mobility and responsiveness.
The COAS further highlighted the Senior Executive Transition Programme, designed to prepare retiring senior officers and their spouses for post-service life.
He described the programme as part of broader efforts to strengthen personnel welfare during and after military service.
Earlier, Daramola congratulated Shaibu on his appointment as COAS and elevation to the rank of lieutenant-general.
He commended the COAS for efforts to strengthen the Army’s force structure and operational capabilities across the country.
Daramola appreciated the Army’s support to Course 39 UWA, particularly in health insurance, emergency assistance and capacity-building programmes.
He assured the COAS that members of Course 39 remained willing to contribute their operational, technical and leadership experience through mentorship and advisory support. (NAN)
Edited by Sadiya Hamza