African Armies Must Unite Against Terrorism, Insecurity — COAS

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has called for stronger collaboration among African militaries to combat terrorism, insurgency and other cross-border security threats confronting the continent.

Shaibu made the call during the Third African Land Forces Forum held as part of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026 in Port Harcourt.

The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Col. Appolonia Anele.

According to the statement, the COAS welcomed army chiefs and defence representatives from 17 African countries participating in the forum, describing their presence as a demonstration of a shared commitment to strengthening regional security, promoting unity and advancing lasting peace across Africa.

Shaibu said incorporating the African Land Forces Forum into NADCEL 2026 provided an opportunity not only to celebrate the history and achievements of the Nigerian Army but also to deepen military cooperation among African nations.

Reflecting on the evolution of the Nigerian Army, he noted that the force, established in 1863 as the Glover Hausas, had grown into one of Africa’s leading land forces.

He explained that the forum was created to encourage dialogue, cooperation and the exchange of operational experiences among African armies.

According to him, the platform is designed to improve interoperability, build long-term strategic partnerships and develop coordinated responses to common security challenges.

Shaibu observed that security threats across the continent have become increasingly complex and transnational, making regional collaboration more important than ever.

Drawing from Nigeria’s counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations, he highlighted the importance of adaptive operational strategies, effective use of air power, continuous troop training and sustained partnerships among African countries.

The army chief also commended the role of the Multinational Joint Task Force, noting that it has contributed significantly to degrading insurgent groups and reclaiming territories within the Lake Chad Basin.

He added that the forum would feature exhibitions of advanced defence technologies, locally developed military innovations and operational equipment to encourage knowledge sharing, capacity development and stronger strategic cooperation.

Shaibu urged participants to use the forum to strengthen partnerships and develop practical solutions capable of improving Africa’s collective security architecture and promoting lasting peace across the continent.