The Nigerian Army has been recognised as Africa’s leading national force in counter-terrorism operations after receiving the 2025 Africa’s Best National Army in Counter-Terrorism Operations award from African Security Watch.
The honour was presented to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Wednesday at the Army Headquarters in Abuja.
According to a statement shared on X by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the award acknowledges the Army’s achievements in combating terrorism, strengthening operational leadership and enhancing regional security.
The award was handed over by Major General Teriworie Gagariga, who had earlier accepted it on behalf of the Nigerian Army during the African Security Watch Awards Ceremony in Banjul, The Gambia.
African Security Watch said the recognition followed the Army’s sustained success in joint military operations, intelligence-driven missions, civil-military relations, force development and capacity-building initiatives.
It noted that these efforts had disrupted terrorist activities and contributed significantly to improving security in Nigeria and across the region.
Speaking after receiving the award, Lieutenant General Shaibu described the recognition as a tribute to the bravery, professionalism and dedication of officers and soldiers serving in various operational theatres across the country.
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He said the honour reflected the sacrifices made daily by military personnel in confronting terrorism and other security threats, adding that the award affirmed the effectiveness of the Nigerian Army’s evolving counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency strategies.
Shaibu dedicated the recognition to officers and soldiers who paid the ultimate price in the line of duty, as well as their families, whose resilience and support continue to inspire the Armed Forces.
He also reaffirmed the Army’s resolve to consolidate its operational achievements through intelligence-led operations, improved training, enhanced welfare for personnel and stronger collaboration with other security agencies.
According to the Army chief, the Nigerian Army will continue its transformation into a more professional, adaptive and combat-ready force capable of responding effectively to emerging security threats while contributing to peace and stability across Africa.
The continental recognition underscores the Nigerian Army’s expanding role in regional security efforts and its continued commitment to tackling terrorism and violent extremism on the African continent.