The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has been honoured with the Distinguished Personality Award for his contributions to defence research, innovation and military capability development.
Shaibu received the award on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at the National Defence College (NDC) Course 34 Graduation Dinner and Awards Night in Abuja.
The recognition was in acknowledgement of his support for defence research and innovation, particularly efforts aimed at strengthening military operations, improving decision-making and developing capabilities to meet emerging security challenges.
The award also highlighted the COAS’ commitment to integrating research findings, operational experience and innovation into the Nigerian Army’s efforts to enhance its effectiveness in contemporary security operations.
The ceremony, attended by Service Chiefs, senior military officers, members of the Federal Executive Council and other national security stakeholders, marked the successful completion of NDC Course 34.
It also underscored the importance of professional military education, research and inter-service collaboration in strengthening Nigeria’s national security architecture and safeguarding its national interests.
The honour further reflected Lieutenant General Shaibu’s drive to build a professional, adaptable, combat-ready and resilient Nigerian Army, while promoting stronger partnerships between operational forces and defence research institutions.
Such collaboration, the recognition underscored, remained critical to developing innovative responses to the complex and evolving security threats confronting the country.
