In a strategic move towards strengthening civil-military synergy between the Army Headquarters and the Ministry, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence Mr Richard Pheelangwa has paid a strategic familiarization visit to the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu at Army headquarters, Abuja.
According to a statement by the Ministry’s Deputy Director (Information and Public Relations), Enderline Chukwu, the Permanent Secretary explained that the visit was to strengthen institutional engagements with the Army and reiterated the Ministry’s determination to resolving administrative bottlenecks, ensuring budgetary performance and execution, timely delivery of services, as well as transparent procurement process.
Pheelangwa further stated that the Ministry is committed towards supporting the Military to achieve its national goals of protecting lives of the citizens in the most effective and efficient manner.
He also emphasized on welfare, human capital development and the effort of the Ministry in engaging with Defence Industry Corporations of Nigeria (DICON) for more positive outcomes.
In response, General Shaibu reaffirmed that the expansion of the Nigerian Army Aviation wing is a critical pillar in the modernization drive and a decisive force multiplier of the Nigerian Army in confronting Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.
He stressed that sustained policy support and predictable resource allocation are essential to maximizing the operational impact of air power.
The COAS emphasized that maintaining operational superiority in today’s complex threat environment demands seamless integration of advanced aviation platforms and unmanned aerial systems with responsive administrative frameworks.
He highlighted the ongoing expansion of Army Aviation capabilities and enhancement of Unmanned Aerial Systems as vital enablers that significantly improve response times, precision engagement and situational awareness across multiple theatres of operation.
According to him, these capabilities are redefining battlefield dynamics and strengthening the ability of the Nigerian Army to project power, dominate operational space and protect civil populace.
Lieutenant General Shaibu further noted that the success of these modernization efforts depends largely on sustainable funding structures, efficient procurement processes and robust logistical support. He stressed that predictable resource flows will ensure continuity, operational effectiveness and long-term dominance, enabling the Army Aviation component to fully deliver on its strategic mandate in support of ground operations.
The COAS also drew attention to the growing infrastructural and logistical demands arising from increased personnel strength approved President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. With thousands of recruits currently in training, he advocated deliberate investment in barracks construction and facility upgrades to guarantee adequate accommodation, enhanced welfare and improved living standards, which he described as essential to morale, cohesion and operational effectiveness.
He however assures of the Army’s full cooperation with the Ministry for the attainment of the desired national goal.
Present at the event from the Ministry were the Director of Press and Public Relations, the Director Army Affairs and Principal Staff Officers of the Army Headquarters.
