By Mohammad Tijjani
The Chief of Army Staff(COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, on Wednesday charged the middle care officers of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to lead with integrity and decide with courage, declaring that trust is the foundation of command.
The COAS gave the charge at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College (AFCSC), Jaji , Regimental Dinner Night in honour of the graduating students of Senior Course 47, and Junior Course 100.
The News Agency of NIgeria (NAN), report that the Army Chief was represented by the Commander, Infantry Corps, Nigerian Army , Maj.-Gen. Godwin Mutkut.
Shaibu said the occasion marked not just an event; but a celebration of heritage, a prelude to a historic milestone and the maiden joint graduation ceremony of Junior Course 100 and Senior Course 47.
The COAS said regimental dinner.was a cherished tradition that embodied the discipline, etiquette, and esprit de corps of the Armed Forces.
He said, “This dinner serves as a reminder of the values that unify us as officers in the Nigerian Armed Forces, discipline, loyalty, respect, and service before self.”
The COAS told the Junior Course 100 members that they had have undergone rigorous trainings that had sharpened their tactical acumen and leadership skills.
He said, “You embody the future of our officer corps, and tonight signifies your readiness to take on greater responsibilities in our nation’s service.
*To the Senior Course 47 graduates, your journey reflects strategic depth and operational mastery.
“You are being groomed to not only command but also to shape policy and doctrine for our Armed Forces.”
According to him, the joint graduation of the two courses symbolised a continuum of professional military education, where tactical brilliance met strategic foresight.
Shaibu said this milestone reinforced the key principles of synergy, integration, and jointness, which were vital in modern warfare.
He explained that success in today’s complex security environment can only be achieved through collaborative efforts across services and branches.
Shaibu stated that in line with the commandant’s vision, the Armed Forces Command and Staff College had introduced innovative training packages aimed at preparing you for modern conflicts.
He added, “These emphasise critical thinking, air-to-ground integration, and the integration of technological advancements into military operations.*
Shaibu said the college’s focus on technology and innovation was preparing them for the challenges of modern warfare.
He added that the recent Exercise HASKE BIYU showcased the successful integration of these concepts in realistic scenarios, affirming that AFCSC was not just keeping pace but setting new standards in military education.
Shaibu said as members of Junior Course 100 and Senior Course 47, they were now equipped to address insecurity, operate in complex environments, and contribute significantly to Nigeria’s stability and that of the West African sub-region.
Shaibu told the allied students from sister countries that their presence was essential for fostering collaboration and synergy in achieving collective security.
The COAS said,”Your diverse experiences enrich our courses and reinforce the spirit of African brotherhood.
“As you prepare for graduation.” I urge you to embody the lessons learned
Lead with integrity; trust is the foundation of command.”
Shaibu urged them to remember that the uniforms they wear were symbols of authority, commitment to Nigeria and its people.
He said, “As we dine in the spirit of regimental tradition, let us celebrate not only your achievements but also the enduring values of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
” May this dinner inspire you to achieve even greater heights, and may your graduation mark the beginning of a distinguished service to our beloved nation.
“Congratulations to you all. May God bless the Armed Forces of Nigeria and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.” (NÀN)(www.nannews.ng)