By Chuks Oyema-Aziken
The Nigerian Army has been recognised as Africa’s Best National Army in Counter-Terrorism Operations for 2025 by African Security Watch, a continental security organisation, in recognition of its operational achievements, strategic leadership and sustained efforts in combating terrorism and violent extremism across Nigeria.
The prestigious award was formally presented to the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, at the Army Headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday by Major General Teriworie Gagariga, who had earlier received it on behalf of the Nigerian Army during the African Security Watch Awards Ceremony held in Banjul, The Gambia.
In a statement, the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, said the award reflects the Nigerian Army’s emergence as Africa’s leading force in Counter-Terrorism and Counter-Insurgency Operations (CTCOIN), following years of sustained intelligence-driven operations that have significantly degraded terrorist networks, restored security to affected communities and contributed to regional peace and stability.
According to the statement, the recognition further affirms the Nigerian Army’s growing reputation as a professional and highly capable institution whose operational doctrine, combat experience and institutional best practices continue to serve as reference points for armed forces across the African continent.
Receiving the award, Lieutenant General Shaibu described the honour as a testament to the courage, professionalism, resilience and unwavering commitment of Nigerian Army officers and soldiers who continue to make sacrifices in defence of the nation’s sovereignty and the protection of its citizens.
He said the award validates the effectiveness of the Army’s evolving counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency strategy and reinforces its position as a continental model for addressing complex security challenges.
The Army Chief dedicated the award to officers and soldiers who paid the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty, as well as to their families for their steadfast support, noting that their courage and selfless service continue to inspire the Army’s determination to secure the nation.
Shaibu reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to sustaining its operational successes through enhanced intelligence-led operations, stronger joint and multi-agency collaboration, rigorous training, improved personnel welfare and the acquisition of modern capabilities.
He added that under his leadership, the Army would continue its transformation into a more professional, adaptive, combat-ready and resilient force capable of effectively responding to Nigeria’s evolving security challenges while contributing to regional peace and stability.
African Security Watch said the Nigerian Army earned the continental recognition based on its achievements in coordinated joint operations, intelligence-driven campaigns, effective civil-military cooperation, force development and capacity building, which have significantly weakened terrorist organisations and strengthened national and regional security.
The organisation further noted that the Nigerian Army has established itself as a benchmark for professional excellence and operational effectiveness in counter-terrorism operations across Africa.
