By Bavoriat Clara
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has described the expansion of the Nigerian Army Aviation wing as a critical pillar in the Army’s modernization drive and a decisive force multiplier in addressing Nigeria’s evolving security challenges. He made the assertion on Thursday during a strategic visit by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Mr. Richard Pheelangwa, to Army Headquarters in Abuja.
Lieutenant General Shaibu stressed that sustained policy support and predictable resource allocation remain essential to maximizing the operational impact of air power. He noted that maintaining operational superiority in today’s complex threat environment requires seamless integration of advanced aviation platforms and unmanned aerial systems with responsive administrative frameworks.
The COAS highlighted the ongoing expansion of Army Aviation capabilities and the enhancement of Unmanned Aerial Systems as key enablers that significantly improve response times, precision engagement, and situational awareness across multiple theatres of operation.
According to him, these capabilities are redefining battlefield dynamics and strengthening the Nigerian Army’s ability to project power, dominate operational space, and protect the civilian population.
He further emphasized that the success of the modernization efforts depends largely on sustainable funding structures, efficient procurement processes, and robust logistical support. Predictable resource flows, he said, would ensure continuity and long-term operational effectiveness of the Army Aviation component in support of ground operations.
Lieutenant General Shaibu also drew attention to the growing infrastructural and logistical demands arising from the increased personnel strength approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He advocated deliberate investment in barracks construction and facility upgrades to enhance accommodation, welfare, and living standards for troops.
In his remarks, Mr. Richard Pheelangwa described the visit as a strategic engagement aimed at deepening collaboration between the Ministry of Defence and the Nigerian Army, reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening administrative synergy, eliminating procedural bottlenecks, and prioritizing resource governance in support of the Army’s aviation expansion and broader modernization agenda.
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