Nigerian Army Reaffirms Commitment to Rule of Law, Stronger Security Partnerships

The Nigerian Army has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening national security through adherence to the Constitution, the rule of law and respect for fundamental human rights.

The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, stated this at the 2026 Annual General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Represented at the conference by the General Officer Commanding 6 Division, Nigerian Army, and Land Component Commander, Joint Task Force South South, Operation Delta Safe, Major General Everest Okoro, Shaibu said the evolving nature of security threats required stronger collaboration among security agencies, legal institutions and other stakeholders.

The Army chief said the theme of the conference, “Beyond Limits,” reflected the resilience, innovation and collective determination needed by security and legal institutions to confront emerging challenges and build a safer and more just Nigeria.

According to him, contemporary security challenges can no longer be addressed through conventional military responses alone, stressing the need for a whole-of-nation approach.

He identified credible intelligence, technology, inter-agency cooperation and innovative solutions as critical components of effective national security.

Shaibu also stressed that security operations must remain firmly anchored on the law, noting that effective security is inseparable from strong institutions, justice and the protection of citizens’ rights.

He described the Nigerian Bar Association as an important partner in strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring that security operations are conducted professionally and responsibly.

The Chief of Army Staff called for enhanced collaboration between the Nigerian Army, the legal profession, the Judiciary and other institutions of state to tackle emerging security threats and protect vulnerable populations.

He said stronger institutional partnerships would help consolidate a safer and more prosperous Nigeria.

Shaibu commended the leadership of the Nigerian Bar Association as well as the government and people of Rivers State for hosting the conference, urging participants to move beyond existing limitations and work together to advance national security, justice and national development.