Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has urged newly commissioned officers of the Nigerian Army to place national interest above all personal considerations as they begin their careers in service to the country.
Shaibu gave the charge on Saturday at the Jaji Military Cantonment, where 250 cadets of the Executive Commission Course 2/2025 were formally commissioned as officers at the Nigerian Army School of Infantry Parade Ground.
Describing the commissioning as a significant milestone, the Army Chief said the officers had earned their new status through sacrifice, discipline and unwavering commitment.
He reminded them that they were now full stakeholders in defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.
“As you step into the responsibilities of command, let the guiding principle be that Nigeria must always come first. Many of you will soon be deployed to operational theatres where your courage, discipline and training will be tested. Rely on the values, knowledge and skills you have acquired.” Shaibu said.
He assured the officers that they would not face the challenges of their new roles alone, noting that the Nigerian Army Officers’ Corps is anchored on camaraderie, loyalty and shared patriotism.
He urged them to uphold these values while demonstrating sound judgment and strategic planning in all assignments.
“Leadership has both consequences and rewards. Always have a plan—even a bad plan is better than none.” he cautioned.
Shaibu reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to improving personnel welfare and professional development, in line with his vision for a more adaptable, combat-ready and resilient force.
He also reiterated the military’s unwavering loyalty to constitutional authority, stressing that professionalism is rooted in respect for democratic governance.
“We remain proud defenders of democracy. Stay apolitical and focus on your duty to the nation,” he added.
The COAS commended the Commandant of the Nigerian Army School of Infantry, Maj.-Gen. Frank Etim, and his team for transforming the cadets into officers ready for field operations.
He also thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for sustained support to the Army, as well as Governor Uba Sani and the people of Kaduna State for their continued cooperation.
Earlier, Maj.-Gen. Etim said the course, which commenced on 6 September 2025, was designed to instill leadership, physical fitness, integrity and loyalty. He noted that the cadets were extensively trained in counter-terrorism and counterinsurgency operations to prepare them for evolving security challenges.
Declaring the officers ready for higher responsibilities, Etim urged them to remain steadfast. “Be prepared for uncharted challenges. Yield to nothing,” he charged.
Shaibu wished the new officers a fulfilling career as they take their place in the officer corps of the Nigerian Army.
