“No Room For Slackers! Army Chief Warns Fresh Generals: Perform Or Step Aside!”
By Passman Akpos
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has charged newly promoted senior officers of the Nigerian Army to embrace strategic thinking, innovation and exemplary leadership as they assume expanded responsibilities.
He gave the charge on Friday, December 5, 2025, during the investiture of newly promoted Brigadier Generals serving at the Army Headquarters in Abuja. The COAS was represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Major General Bamidele Alabi.
Addressing the decorated officers, the Army Chief urged them to raise the bar in leadership by prioritizing troops’ welfare, inspiring subordinates, and driving solution-oriented initiatives across their various commands.
“Promotion is not a reward but a call to greater service,” he stated, stressing that the officers were elevated on account of professional excellence, hard work, and unwavering commitment to national defence.
He emphasized that as the officers now occupy critical management positions, they must exhibit proactive problem-solving, maintain discipline and integrity, and provide mentorship to junior officers amid evolving security challenges.
The COAS further highlighted the importance of civil-military cooperation, robust inter-agency collaboration and strategic operational readiness, noting that military leadership must continually adapt to dynamic threats facing the nation.
Earlier in his remarks, Chief of Administration (Army), Major General Isa Abdullahi, reiterated the need for the senior officers to think beyond traditional tactics. He charged them to confront emerging threats with courage, creativity and professionalism, while translating the COAS command philosophy into tangible results in the field. He also hailed the spouses for their sacrifice and support.
Speaking on behalf of the newly promoted officers, Brigadier General Nanpon Gambo thanked God for the elevation and expressed profound appreciation to the COAS for finding them worthy of higher responsibility. He pledged unwavering dedication to upholding the values and standards of the Nigerian Army.
He also acknowledged the mentorship of Principal Staff Officers and the support of colleagues and family members in enabling their professional growth.
The ceremony drew applause and commendations as the Army reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, accountability and operational excellence.
APPOLONIA ANELELieutenant ColonelActing Director Army Public Relations5 December 2025
