By Faheem Lawal
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to strengthening national security through sustained adherence to the Constitution, the rule of law and respect for fundamental human rights.
Shaibu made this known at the 2026 Annual General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, where he said the theme of the conference, “Beyond Limits,” aptly captured the resilience, innovation and collective determination required of security and legal institutions to confront emerging threats and build a stronger, safer and more just Nigeria.
The COAS, who was represented at the conference by the General Officer Commanding 6 Division, Nigerian Army, and Land Component Commander, Joint Task Force South South, Operation DELTA SAFE, Major General Valentine Okoro, said contemporary national security challenges required a whole-of-nation approach that went beyond conventional military responses.
He stressed the need for credible intelligence, technology, inter-agency cooperation and innovative solutions, noting that effective security could not be separated from strong institutions, access to justice and the protection of citizens’ rights.
Shaibu described the Nigerian Bar Association as a critical partner in strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring that security operations remained professional, responsible and firmly anchored in applicable laws.
He called for stronger collaboration among the Nigerian Army, the legal profession, the Judiciary and other institutions of state to effectively confront emerging security threats, protect vulnerable populations and consolidate a safer and more prosperous Nigeria.
The COAS also commended the leadership of the Nigerian Bar Association, as well as the Government and people of Rivers State, for hosting the conference.
He urged participants to move beyond existing limitations and harness institutional partnerships to advance national security, justice and sustainable national development.
(The Sun)
