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The Nigerian Army has been recognised as Africa’s Best National Army in Counter-Terrorism Operations for 2025, earning continental acclaim for its sustained offensive against terrorism and violent extremism.
The prestigious honour, conferred by African Security Watch, acknowledges the Army’s operational successes, strategic leadership and professionalism in combating insurgency while restoring peace to affected communities across Nigeria.
The award was formally presented to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, at the Army Headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday 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.
According to a statement issued by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the recognition affirms the Nigerian Army’s growing reputation as one of Africa’s most capable military institutions, with its counter-terrorism doctrine, operational experience and best practices serving as reference points for other armed forces on the continent.
Receiving the award, Shaibu described the recognition as a tribute to the courage, professionalism, resilience and unwavering commitment of officers and soldiers who continue to make immense 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 and Counter-Insurgency Operations strategy and reinforces its position as a continental model for tackling complex security threats.
The Army Chief dedicated the honour to officers and soldiers who paid the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty, as well as their families whose steadfast support, he said, remains invaluable.
He stressed that the courage and selfless service of fallen heroes continue to inspire the Nigerian Army’s resolve to secure the nation and preserve peace for all Nigerians.
Shaibu also reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to sustaining its operational gains through enhanced intelligence-led operations, stronger joint and multi-agency collaboration, rigorous training, improved personnel welfare and the acquisition of modern military capabilities.
He pledged to continue transforming the Nigerian Army into a more professional, adaptive, combat-ready and resilient force capable of addressing the country’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 achievements in coordinated joint operations, intelligence-driven campaigns, effective 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 established itself as a benchmark for professional excellence and operational effectiveness in counter-terrorism operations across Africa.
