President Bola Tinubu has expressed his support for the leadership philosophy of Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, which he described as pivotal for a modern Nigerian Army. During a recent address, Tinubu highlighted the importance of professionalism, adaptability, combat readiness, and resilience, which form the foundation of Shaibu’s command philosophy.
These principles guide various aspects of the Army’s operations, including training, equipment, and leadership. The President noted this doctrine signifies a departure from military conservatism, with a move towards more mobile, offensive operations.
In the foreword to a book titled ‘The Shaibu Doctrine: Mission Command and the Remaking of Nigeria’s Army at War,’ co-authored by Dr. Muhammed Sani Abubakar and Associate Professor Sunday Adejoh of the Nigerian Defence Academy, Tinubu emphasized the Army’s responsibility in fostering an environment conducive to democracy and development.
Furthermore, the President underscored ongoing reforms within the military, which encompass the adoption of new technologies, the domestic production of military tools, enhanced personnel welfare, and a renewed commitment to military ethics.
Abubakar, one of the book’s authors, explained that he chose to document Shaibu’s leadership philosophy, especially focusing on the Mission Command approach, which empowers subordinate commanders to make decisions based on battlefield conditions. This leadership style fosters trust and initiative, essential for operational effectiveness.
The book is set to be launched on November 24, 2026, at the Nigerian Army Resource Centre in Abuja. Meanwhile, Defence Minister General Christopher Musa (rtd) has reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to preserving the legacy of the Economic Community of West African States Monitoring Group (ECOMOG), which played a crucial role in maintaining peace in West Africa.
During an engagement with ECOMOG veterans, General Musa assured attendees that the contributions of those who served in Liberia and Sierra Leone would not be forgotten, emphasizing ongoing efforts to document their sacrifices.
Chief of Defence Staff General Olufemi Oluyede, in a separate interaction, reiterated the government’s commitment to the welfare of veterans, addressing concerns and outlining initiatives aimed at improving their lives post-service. He noted the establishment of healthcare facilities specifically for veterans and ongoing efforts to create a low-interest loan scheme to assist them in business ventures.
