The Nigerian Army has reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare of its personnel and the families of fallen soldiers, as the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, presented insurance cheques to bereaved families and troops wounded in active service.
The presentation took place during the opening of the COAS First Bi-Annual Conference 2026 at the Nigerian Army Conference Centre and Suites in Abuja.
A total of 136 families benefited from the Nigerian Army Personnel Insurance Scheme (NAPIS), an initiative designed to support soldiers who are injured, hospitalised, or killed in the line of duty. While some beneficiaries received cheques during the ceremony, others had payments made directly into their bank accounts.
Speaking at the event, Lt.-Gen. Shaibu emphasized the Army’s dedication to improving welfare, healthcare, and support systems for its personnel. He noted that the conference serves as a strategic forum to review ongoing military operations, assess progress made in the first half of the year, and plan for the remainder of 2026.
He highlighted that discussions would focus on operational readiness, emerging security threats, and strategies to enhance effectiveness across various theatres of operation.
The Army chief commended officers and soldiers for their courage and professionalism in addressing security challenges nationwide, while paying tribute to those who lost their lives in service to the country.
He reiterated that the Army’s “Soldier First Concept” prioritizes troop welfare, morale, training, and empowerment as essential elements for operational success.
Lt.-Gen. Shaibu also revealed that the Army is expanding its presence across the country through new formations, increased recruitment, improved infrastructure, and enhanced welfare packages. He added that healthcare services have been upgraded, with improved medical evacuation arrangements for injured personnel both within and outside Nigeria.
The Army chief stressed the importance of cooperation between civilians and the military, noting that public support remains critical in tackling terrorism, banditry, and other security threats.
He further assured that the Army would continue to combine military operations with community-focused initiatives to build trust and stability in affected areas.
Lt.-Gen. Shaibu also expressed appreciation to Bola Ahmed Tinubu for continued support to the military, which he said has enhanced operational capacity through improved equipment and infrastructure.
Earlier, the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Major General Bamidele Alabi, said the conference would help consolidate operational gains and set strategic direction for the rest of the year.
Also speaking, the Director-General of the Nigerian Army Finance Corporation, Maj.-Gen. Julius Ehioze Osifo, explained that NAPIS—introduced in February 2023—complements the Federal Government’s Group Life Assurance Policy by providing insurance cover for personnel injured, hospitalised, or killed while on duty.
