The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has underscored the importance of practical and mission-driven training in enhancing the Nigerian Army’s operational capacity amid changing security challenges.
Shaibu made the remarks on Tuesday, the 6th of January, 2026, while officially opening the 2026 Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC) Conference, an event that signals the start of the Army’s training programmes for the year.
He cautioned that poor or inadequate troop preparation could negatively affect mission outcomes, stressing that Nigeria’s dynamic and complex security landscape demands a force that is flexible, highly professional and combat-ready.
He explained that the conference was organised to assess existing training methods and doctrinal frameworks, with a view to aligning them with the current security realities confronting the nation.
The Army Chief emphasised that doctrine remains the foundation of training, planning and military operations. He therefore urged commanders and leaders of training institutions to ensure that personnel are equipped to handle real-world operational scenarios.
Shaibu further advocated for greater realism in training exercises, calling for the integration of improvised explosive device (IED) simulations, explosive ordnance disposal techniques and modern simulators to boost effectiveness and preparedness.
He identified Exercise MUGUN BUGU as a vital element of the Army’s training structure, describing it as essential for measuring operational readiness and testing doctrinal concepts.
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Also speaking at the event, the Commander of TRADOC, Maj.-Gen. Peter Malla, said the conference serves as a forum for evaluating training standards and reinforcing the connection between doctrine and field operations.
Malla added that experiences from ongoing counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency campaigns have further demonstrated the critical role of sound training in achieving successful missions.
The conference is expected to include a series of presentations and deliberations focused on strengthening training outcomes and improving overall operational performance across Nigerian Army formations.