Amanze Chinonye
Newly appointed Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has signalled a decisive shift in Nigeria’s counterinsurgency posture with his maiden operational visit to Maiduguri, where he met troops of Operation Hadin Kai and outlined expectations for a renewed offensive against insurgent groups in the North-East.
The visit, Shaibu’s first since assuming office as the 25th COAS is viewed within defence circles as an early indication of the Army’s intention to recalibrate operations, tighten command oversight, and accelerate stabilisation efforts in Borno and neighbouring states.
Addressing frontline soldiers, the Army Chief directed them to “brace for a major offensive against terrorists,” stressing that “there is no room for complacency.” His remarks reflect a broader operational message: the era of a defensive, reactive posture is over, and troops should prepare for more aggressive, coordinated pushes into insurgent-held enclaves.
Shaibu also assured personnel of full institutional backing, promising enhanced support systems to sustain battlefield pressure and consolidate gains recorded under Operation Hadin Kai.
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During a courtesy visit to the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji (Dr) Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai Elkanemi, the COAS sought continued prayers, intelligence cooperation, and community engagement, elements analysts consider essential for rebuilding trust and maintaining momentum in conflict-affected communities.
The monarch praised the Nigerian Army’s sacrifices, humanitarian efforts, and resilience, and pledged his support for ongoing peace-restoration efforts.
The visit included high-level operational briefings, project inaugurations, and interactions with wounded personnel, reflecting what security observers describe as Shaibu’s focus on morale, readiness, and rapid adaptation.
This development signals a possible redefinition of Nigeria’s security outlook as the new Army leadership moves to demonstrate intent and urgency in tackling one of the country’s longest-running conflicts.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
