By Augustine Ehikioya
The Nigerian Army has been honoured as ‘Africa’s Best National Army in Counter-Terrorism Operations for 2025’, a continental recognition conferred by Africa Security Watch for its sustained fight against terrorism and violent extremism.
The award was formally presented to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Wednesday, 29 July 2026, at the Army Headquarters, Abuja.
Major General Teriworie Gagariga, who received the award on behalf of the Army during the Africa Security Watch Awards Ceremony in Banjul, The Gambia, made the presentation in Abuja.
A statement by Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director Army Public Relations, and made available to Security Watch Africa (SWA), said while receiving the award, Lt. Gen. Shaibu described the honour as a validation of the “extraordinary courage, professionalism, resilience and unwavering dedication” of Nigerian Army officers and soldiers.
He dedicated the award to troops who “paid the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty” and to their families, noting that their selfless service continues to inspire the Army’s commitment to securing the nation.
“This award validates the effectiveness of the Nigerian Army’s evolving CTCOIN strategy and reinforces its position as a continental model for addressing complex security challenges,” the COAS said, referring to Counter-Terrorism and Counter-Insurgency Operations.
Lt. Gen. Shaibu reaffirmed the Army’s resolve to build on the gains through enhanced intelligence-led operations, stronger joint and multi-agency collaboration, rigorous training, improved personnel welfare, and acquisition of modern capabilities.
He said the Army, under his leadership, will continue 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.”
The recognition further cemented the Nigerian Army’s growing reputation as a professional institution whose operational doctrine and combat experience serve as reference points for armed forces across the continent.
According to Africa Security Watch, the Nigerian Army was selected based on “remarkable achievements in coordinated joint operations, intelligence-driven campaigns, effective civil-military cooperation, force development and capacity building.”
It noted that the efforts have significantly degraded terrorist networks, restored security to affected communities, and enhanced both national and regional stability.
It added that the Nigerian Army has now “established itself as a benchmark for professional excellence and operational effectiveness in counter-terrorism across Africa.”
The award underscored the Army’s emergence as Africa’s leading force in CTCOIN, reflecting years of sustained, intelligence-led operations that have weakened insurgent groups and contributed to peace in the region.
