Nigerian Army honoured as Africa’s best in counter-terrorism operations

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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 efforts in combating terrorism and violent extremism across the continent.

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The honour was formally presented to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Wednesday at the Army Headquarters in Abuja.

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According to a statement shared on X and signed by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the award acknowledges the Army’s operational achievements, strategic leadership and sustained commitment to counter-terrorism efforts.

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The award was presented by Major General Teriworie Gagariga, who had earlier received it on behalf of the Nigerian Army during the African Security Watch Awards Ceremony in Banjul, The Gambia.

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African Security Watch said the Nigerian Army earned the recognition for its success in coordinated joint operations, intelligence-led campaigns, civil-military cooperation, force development and capacity building.

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The organisation noted that the Army’s operations had significantly disrupted terrorist networks while strengthening national and regional security.

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Receiving the award, Shaibu described the honour as a tribute to the courage, professionalism and sacrifice of Nigerian Army personnel serving across the country.

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He said the recognition reflected the dedication of officers and soldiers who continue to confront security threats in different parts of Nigeria.

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“The award validates the effectiveness of the Nigerian Army’s evolving counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency strategy and reinforces its position as a continental model for addressing complex security challenges,” Shaibu said.

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The Army chief dedicated the award to officers and soldiers who lost their lives in the line of duty, as well as their families, commending their unwavering support and sacrifice.

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He said their commitment continued to inspire the military’s mission to safeguard the country and promote peace.

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Shaibu also reaffirmed the Army’s resolve to consolidate its operational successes through intelligence-driven operations, enhanced training, stronger collaboration with other security agencies and improved welfare for personnel.

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He pledged that the Nigerian Army would continue its transformation into a more professional, adaptive and combat-ready force capable of responding effectively to emerging security threats.

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“The Nigerian Army will continue to advance its transformation into a more professional, adaptive, combat-ready and resilient force capable of decisively addressing Nigeria’s evolving security challenges while making meaningful contributions to regional peace and security,” he said.

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The recognition underscores the Nigerian Army’s growing role in regional security and its contribution to efforts aimed at combating terrorism and violent extremism across Africa.

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