The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has stressed the need for stronger civil-military relations to promote national development, saying security and sustainable development are closely connected.
Shaibu spoke on Sunday during a medical outreach in Okrika, Rivers State, organised as part of activities marking the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL).
Represented by the Commander of the Nigerian Army Cyber Warfare Command, Maj.-Gen. Emmanuel Mustapha, the Army Chief said the outreach demonstrated the military’s commitment to improving the health and well-being of Nigerians while strengthening ties with host communities.
“The Nigerian Army Day Celebration provides an opportunity not only to honour the sacrifices and achievements of our officers and soldiers but also to strengthen our relationship with the communities we serve,” he said.
Shaibu noted that a healthy population is essential for national growth and lasting peace, adding that the Army’s responsibilities extend beyond combating insecurity to supporting humanitarian and community development initiatives.
He said the Nigerian Army remains engaged in operations against terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, oil theft and other criminal activities while continuing to support civil authorities through programmes such as the medical outreach.
According to him, the outreach offered free medical consultations, laboratory tests, treatment, health education and referral services to residents of Okrika.
He expressed confidence that the programme would address immediate health needs while encouraging healthier lifestyles and greater awareness of disease prevention.
Shaibu commended the Okrika Local Government Area for its cooperation and reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to working with stakeholders to promote peace, security and development.
He also urged residents to continue providing timely and credible intelligence to security agencies to strengthen efforts against crime.
“As we commemorate this year’s Nigerian Army Day Celebration, let us renew our collective resolve to build a peaceful, united and prosperous Nigeria,” he said.
Earlier, the Commander of the Corps of Medical, Brig.-Gen. Innocent Enwuchola, said the Nigerian Army remains committed to supporting healthcare delivery through civil-military cooperation programmes in addition to its constitutional responsibility of defending the nation’s territorial integrity.
He said the outreach provided free medical consultations, dental services, eye examinations, medications and health education to residents.
Enwuchola added that the Army recognises good health as a key driver of productivity, community development and national progress, and will continue deploying medical professionals to complement healthcare services across the country.
