The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to deploying a blend of kinetic and non-kinetic approaches to address security challenges across the country.
Shaibu gave the assurance on Thursday during the inauguration of a renovated 36-classroom block at the Government Day Girls’ Secondary School in Maradun, Zamfara State.
The project was upgraded by Maj.-Gen. Mamman Galadima under the Army’s Special Intervention Civil-Military Cooperation initiative.
According to him, effective security can only be achieved through collaboration between the military, other security agencies, and the civilian population.
“Under my leadership, the Nigerian Army will continue to pursue both kinetic and non-kinetic lines of operations in collaboration with other security agencies and well-meaning citizens to improve the security situation across the country,” Shaibu said.
He stressed the importance of public trust and cooperation, noting that the Army’s success depends largely on community support.
“The relationship between the people and the Army must be collaborative. The people need the Army, and the Army cannot make the desired impact without the people,” he added, urging Nigerians not to relent in supporting military efforts.
The COAS was represented at the event by the Commander, Theatre Command, Joint Task Force North West, Operation PANSAYAN YAMMA, Maj.-Gen. W.B. Idris.
Speaking on the rationale behind the project, Shaibu explained that the CIMIC initiative was designed to give back to communities that have produced senior Army officers, while also improving living standards.
“These projects are carefully conceptualised and executed in consultation with the benefiting communities to complement the efforts of state governments in providing basic amenities and infrastructure,” he said.
He noted that such interventions also play a strategic role in strengthening non-kinetic operations and fostering goodwill between the Army and host communities.
“The renovation of this school is a well-thought-out initiative that will have a lasting impact on the educational well-being of indigent students and residents of Maradun,” Shaibu stated, commending Galadima for his commitment to community development.
Shaibu also appealed to residents to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information to enhance safety and enable socio-economic activities to thrive.
In his remarks, Maj.-Gen. Galadima said security went beyond military operations, extending to the welfare and development of the people.
“This project is not just about infrastructure; it symbolises hope and a renewed commitment to the future of the girl child in Maradun and Zamfara State,” he said.
The school principal, Mrs. Suwaiba Nafaru, described the renovation as a landmark community-driven educational intervention, expressing gratitude to the Army, the Zamfara State Government, and the Maradun Emirate.
As part of his contribution, Galadima also announced a donation of ₦2 million and learning materials to the school.
The project included renovated classrooms and offices, as well as an upgraded borehole fitted with solar power and water filtration systems for community use.
