– As COAS seeks stronger civil-military relations for nation building
Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt
The Nigerian Army has inaugurated more than 250 Special Intervention Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) projects across the country’s six geopolitical zones as part of activities marking the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026, with the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. General Waibi Shaibu, reaffirming the Army’s commitment to strengthening civil-military relations in support of national development.
Speaking during the inauguration of the renovated Community Secondary School in Lussue, Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State, the COAS, said the intervention projects underscore the Nigerian Army’s non-kinetic approach to addressing security challenges through community engagement and infrastructure development.
The Army Chief, represented by the Chief of Training (Army), Major General Valentine Okoro, stated the Nigerian Army recognises that national security cannot be achieved without the active support and cooperation of the people, stressing the Civil-Military Cooperation Projects Scheme remains a cornerstone of its non-kinetic operations.
He disclosed the Army had successfully commissioned over 250 intervention projects nationwide, including the construction and rehabilitation of hospitals, schools, community town halls, laboratories and roads, as well as the provision of solar-powered street lights, boreholes and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) facilities.
The projects, he noted, were designed to complement government infrastructure and improve the living conditions of host communities.
The COAS explained that in Rivers alone, the Army executed the renovation of the Community Secondary School in Lussue, Khana LGA; Community Secondary School, Rumuomasi in Obio/Akpor LGA; the Community Town Hall in Oyigbo LGA; and a solar-powered borehole in Degema LGA.
He commended the people of Lussue for their support and solidarity with the Nigerian Army, describing the large turnout at the event as a demonstration of the mutual trust and partnership existing between the military and the community.
Shaibu said the renovated secondary school, which had deteriorated over the years, would provide a more conducive learning environment for students while complementing government’s efforts at improving educational infrastructure.
He urged the community to take ownership of the facility by ensuring its proper maintenance, while appreciating the traditional rulers, community leaders and the Rivers State Government for their collaboration in the successful execution of the project.
The COAS assured Nigerians that under his leadership, the Army would continue to pursue both kinetic and non-kinetic operations in collaboration with other security agencies and local communities to guarantee a peaceful and secure environment for socio-economic development.
He also called on Nigerians to continue supporting the military in its efforts to safeguard the nation’s peace, stability and territorial integrity.
Shaibu further acknowledged the support of President Bola Tinubu, saying the administration’s strategic guidance and sustained investment in the Army’s operational, training and administrative needs had strengthened its capacity to effectively discharge its constitutional responsibilities.
Earlier, the Chief of Civil-Military Affairs, Major General Musa Etsu-Ndagi, represented by the Director-General of the Nigerian Army Finance Corporation (NAFIC), Major General Julius Osifo, described the intervention projects as a reflection of the Army’s enduring commitment to national service as it marks its 163rd anniversary.
He said NADCEL 2026 offers the Army an opportunity to celebrate its achievements, honour fallen heroes and recommit itself to the defence of the country.
According to him, the theme of this year’s celebration, “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army,” reinforces the Army’s resolve to protect the nation while strengthening public trust through people-oriented initiatives.
Osifo noted that despite the complexity of contemporary security threats, including terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and oil theft, the Nigerian Army has continued to record operational successes while sustaining humanitarian and community development programmes across the country.
Meanwhile, the Chief of Army Staff has stressed that effective partnership between the military and civilians remains indispensable to Nigeria’s development.
Represented by the Commander, Nigerian Army Cyber Warfare Command, Major General Emmanuel Mustapha, during a medical outreach organised in Okrika, Rivers State, as part of NADCEL 2026, Shaibu said the health of citizens was fundamental to national development and lasting peace.
He said the Army Day celebration was not only an opportunity to commemorate the sacrifices and achievements of officers and soldiers, but also to strengthen the bond between the military and the communities they serve.
According to him, the free medical outreach, which provided consultations, laboratory investigations, treatment, health education and referral services, reflects the Nigerian Army’s commitment to the well-being and prosperity of Nigerians.
“The Nigerian Army recognises that security and development are closely linked. A healthy population is fundamental to national development and enduring peace,” he said.
Shaibu expressed confidence that the outreach would not only address immediate healthcare needs but also promote healthy lifestyles and greater awareness of disease prevention among members of the host community.