Nigerian Army: Civil-Military Cooperation is of Critical Importance in Nation Building

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS) of the Nigerian Army, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, emphasized that cooperation between the civilian population and the military is indispensable for the development and progress of the country. Shaibu made this statement during an event organized as part of the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebrations (NADCEL). The event in question was organized as a comprehensive medical screening program held in the Okrika community of Rivers State. Through his representative, the Army commander stated in his speech that a healthy population is the cornerstone of national development. It was noted that such civil society-oriented initiatives are implemented with the aim of strengthening the military's bonds with the public.

Commander Shaibu noted that the Nigerian Army Day Celebrations offer an opportunity not only to commemorate the heroism and sacrifices of officers and soldiers but also stated that this special day serves as a tool to strengthen ties with the communities the military serves. It was emphasized that the medical assistance program conducted is a concrete indicator of the military's commitment to the health, welfare, and well-being of the Nigerian people. It was expressed that the military fully realizes that the concepts of security and development are closely interconnected. Authorities agree that a healthy population is one of the most fundamental prerequisites for lasting peace and national development. In this regard, it was pledged that military units will continue to provide support to civil authorities through humanitarian and community-oriented programs.

The units of the Nigerian Army continue to effectively combat terrorism, insurgency, armed gang activities, kidnapping, oil theft, and other criminal acts in various operational areas. However, Commander Shaibu stated that military force alone would not be sufficient to overcome these security issues and that the public's support plays a critical role. The commitment of the security forces to support civil authorities through humanitarian programs such as medical assistance was reaffirmed. The medical services provided in the Okrika community include free consultations, laboratory tests, treatments, health education, and hospital referral services. Military authorities expect this health screening to contribute not only to addressing immediate medical needs but also to promoting healthy lifestyles and increasing disease prevention awareness in the community.

The cooperation shown by local governments and the public in such events was appreciated, and it was guaranteed that the Nigerian Army will continue to work with all stakeholders to promote peace, security, and development. Based on the philosophy that security is the joint responsibility of not just one institution but the entire society, the importance of the public supporting the fight against crime was emphasized. It was stated that the public's transmission of timely and reliable information to security forces is of great value in ensuring the safety of communities and reducing crime rates. Shaibu called on all citizens to show a collective commitment towards the goal of building a peaceful, united, and prosperous Nigeria. It was expressed that by acting together, the security challenges facing the country can be overcome and an environment can be created where every citizen can realize their potential.

Also speaking during the event, the Commander of the Nigerian Army Medical Corps, Major General Innocent Enwuchola, stated that they go beyond their constitutional duty of defending the country's territorial integrity. He explicitly stated that the Nigerian Army is committed to contributing to the health and well-being of citizens through civil-military cooperation activities such as medical assistance programs. The military administration is aware that good health is a fundamental element in terms of productivity, community development, and national progress. For this reason, the Nigerian Army continues its efforts to complement existing healthcare services across the country by mobilizing its professional experts. Such humanitarian assistance provided by military health personnel aims to further strengthen the military's trust and reputation among the civilian population.