By Chuks Oyema-Aziken
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has called on traditional rulers in Niger State to deepen collaboration with the Nigerian Army as part of renewed efforts to address security challenges across the state.
Shaibu made the call on Wednesday during a visit to the Etsu Nupe and Chairman of the Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, His Royal Highness Alhaji Dr Yahaya Abubakar, CFR, at his palace in Bida, where he engaged traditional authorities on the evolving security situation in the state.
The Army Chief said the visit formed part of an on-the-spot assessment of military deployments in Niger State, aimed at identifying operational gaps and areas requiring additional troops and other combat enablers to improve the effectiveness of ongoing operations.
He stressed the importance of intelligence-driven operations, particularly community-based and human intelligence, noting that traditional rulers remain critical partners in providing timely and actionable information to support military efforts.
Shaibu also disclosed plans to deploy modern surveillance and operational technologies to enhance proactive security strategies, improve situational awareness and ensure faster response to emerging threats within the state.
Commending the Etsu Nupe for his sustained support to troops operating within the Nupe Kingdom, the COAS described traditional institutions as indispensable allies in the fight against insecurity.
In his response, the Etsu Nupe pledged the continued support of traditional rulers to the Nigerian Army and other security agencies, assuring sustained community cooperation, intelligence sharing and prayers for operational success.
The monarch further lauded the professionalism and conduct of Nigerian Army personnel deployed in the area, noting their positive engagement with local communities and their contributions to peace and stability.
Lieutenant General Shaibu reiterated that the Nigerian Army remains committed to its constitutional mandate of protecting lives and property and will continue to work closely with state governments, traditional institutions and other stakeholders to restore and sustain peace across the country.
