The Nigerian Army has been recognised as Africa’s Best National Army in Counter-Terrorism Operations for 2025 by African Security Watch, in recognition of its operational achievements, strategic leadership and sustained efforts in combating terrorism and violent extremism across the continent.
The prestigious award was formally presented to the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Wednesday at the Army Headquarters in Abuja by Major General Teriworie Gagariga, who had earlier received it on behalf of the Nigerian Army during the African Security Watch Awards Ceremony held in Banjul, The Gambia.
According to a statement issued by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the recognition reflects the Nigerian Army’s emergence as Africa’s leading force in Counter-Terrorism and Counter-Insurgency Operations (CTCOIN), following years of intelligence-led operations that have significantly degraded terrorist networks, restored security to affected communities and strengthened regional peace and stability.
Receiving the award, Lt. Gen. Shaibu described the honour as a tribute to the courage, professionalism, resilience and dedication of Nigerian Army officers and soldiers who continue to make enormous sacrifices in defence of Nigeria’s sovereignty and the protection of its citizens.
He said the award validates the effectiveness of the Army’s evolving counter-terrorism strategy and reinforces its status as a continental model for addressing complex security challenges.
The Army Chief dedicated the award to fallen heroes who paid the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty and to their families, acknowledging their unwavering support and resilience. He noted that their sacrifices continue to inspire the Army’s determination to safeguard the nation and ensure lasting peace.
Shaibu also reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to sustaining its operational successes through enhanced intelligence-driven operations, stronger joint and inter-agency collaboration, improved training, better personnel welfare and the acquisition of modern military capabilities.
He stressed that under his leadership, the Nigerian Army would continue its transformation into a more professional, adaptive and combat-ready force capable of effectively responding to Nigeria’s evolving security challenges while contributing to regional peace and stability.
African Security Watch said the Nigerian Army earned the continental recognition based on its outstanding performance in coordinated joint operations, intelligence-driven campaigns, civil-military cooperation, force development and capacity building, all of which have significantly weakened terrorist organisations and strengthened national and regional security.
The organisation added that the Nigerian Army has become a benchmark for professionalism and operational effectiveness in counter-terrorism operations across Africa.
