Odita Sunday 
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to an intelligence-driven and technology-enabled approach to combating terrorism, banditry, and other asymmetric threats across the country.
Shaibu made the declaration on Tuesday while delivering a lecture to participants of the National Defence College (NDC), Course 34, in Abuja.
Speaking on the theme, “Combating Asymmetric Threats to National Security in Nigeria: The Nigerian Army in Perspective,” the Army Chief said modern security challenges have shifted from conventional warfare to complex conflicts driven by non-state actors.
“The contemporary security environment has transformed from traditional state-centric warfare to conflicts dominated by terrorists, insurgents, bandits, and cybercriminals,” Shaibu said.
He explained that in response, the Army has recalibrated its operational doctrine and force deployment through a comprehensive multi-domain strategy.
“Asymmetric threats thrive on adaptability, anonymity, and the targeting of civilians. Our response must therefore be adaptive, proactive, intelligence-led, and collaborative,” he stated.
According to the COAS, the strategy integrates kinetic operations with intelligence fusion, inter-agency cooperation, joint military action, and international partnerships.
He noted that operations in different parts of the country have been tailored to local threat patterns.
“In the North-East, sustained counter-insurgency operations continue to degrade terrorist capabilities, while in the North-West, joint operations are intensifying pressure on bandits,” Shaibu said.
He added that stabilisation efforts in the North-Central region have focused on protecting civilians and containing communal violence.
The Army Chief also highlighted the role of modern technology, advanced training, and jointness with sister services in improving operational effectiveness.
“National security today goes beyond territorial defence to include economic security, cyber resilience, and human security,” he said.
Shaibu stressed that military efforts must be complemented by good governance and socio-economic development.
“Enduring peace can only be achieved when security operations are reinforced by effective governance and inclusive development,” he added.
He urged participants of NDC Course 34 to embrace integrated security frameworks.
Shaibu reassured Nigerians of the Army’s resolve to protect lives, property, and national infrastructure.
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