Chief of Army of Staff, Waidi Shaibu, rallies troops for decisive North-East offensive against Boko Haram and ISWAP, promising improved welfare and support.

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has charged troops of the North-East Joint Task Force, Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), to prepare for a major and decisive offensive against Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists.

Stressing that the forthcoming operations would mark a critical phase in Nigeria’s long-running counter-insurgency campaign, the Army Chief said the outcome would determine the nation’s success in finally ending terrorism in the region.

Addressing troops at the Maimalari Cantonment in Maiduguri, Borno State, on Friday, General Shaibu declared that the Nigerian Army was entering a new and decisive stage in the war.

“You have been training to defeat the terrorists disturbing the North-East. This time, you are going to do it differently. All combat enablers have been provided and new platforms introduced—all to ensure that you succeed,” he said.

He explained that this phase of the mission belongs to the new generation of troops, who must build upon and surpass the achievements of earlier soldiers who served in national and international operations.

The Army Chief reminded the troops that the responsibility of delivering a decisive blow to Boko Haram and ISWAP now rests on their shoulders.

His remarks came amid reports that the terrorist groups, though weakened, are exploiting border vulnerabilities and regrouping around the Lake Chad axis.

Military analysts have warned that global geopolitical shifts—such as rising extremist propaganda and disruptions in arms trafficking routes—could embolden militants if Nigeria’s offensive slows.

Reassuring the troops of the Army’s full support, General Shaibu disclosed that experienced officers had been deployed to the theatre, alongside upgraded operational platforms, surveillance assets, and precision strike capabilities. “Those before you have done it. This is your own time,” he declared.

The Army Chief also placed strong emphasis on troop welfare, describing it as vital to morale and performance in combat. “Your welfare has been taken care of—from improved ration and cost allowances to prompt payment of entitlements and enhanced medical care. We will continue to improve your well-being,” he said.

He further pledged greater investment in accommodation and education, assuring that soldiers’ children would have access to quality schooling through Army command and children’s schools.

During his two-day operational visit to Maiduguri, General Shaibu also visited wounded personnel at the 7 Division Medical Specialists Hospital, Maimalari Cantonment. He paid a courtesy call on the Shehu of Borno, inspected ongoing works at the Nigerian Army Aviation/TB2 Armed Drone (Guardian) Hangar, reviewed repaired armoured vehicles, and commissioned new Heroes’ Accommodation for transit soldiers before returning to Abuja on Friday.

Transitioning from the frontlines to remembrance, General Shaibu also led officers and soldiers in honouring the memory of the late Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, who passed away a year ago.

Speaking during a Juma’at service held to mark the first anniversary of his death, the COAS described the late Army Chief as a gallant leader whose contributions to strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture remain deeply appreciated.

He noted that a series of commemorative activities—including church services in Karu and Friday prayers—had been organised to honour his memory and the sacrifices of all personnel who have laid down their lives in defence of the nation.

General Shaibu extended his heartfelt condolences to the family of the late COAS, urging them to take solace in the enduring legacy of courage and service he left behind.

He reaffirmed that General Lagbaja’s leadership and devotion to duty continue to inspire the entire Nigerian Army.

The Army Chief further appealed to Nigerians to continue supporting the Armed Forces through prayers and collective commitment to national unity, adding that the military remains resolute in its mission to secure the country and preserve its territorial integrity. (AriseNews TV, but headline rejigged)