We Must Train As We Intend To Fight – COAS Charges Divisional Training Officers
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has charged Divisional Training Officers (DTOs) of the Nigerian Army to ensure that all training activities are sound, realistic, and progressive, stressing that training remains the bedrock of operational success.
The COAS gave the charge on Tuesday, 20 January 2026, at the opening ceremony of the week-long Divisional Training Officers Training Week, organised by the Army Headquarters Department of Training at the 3 Division Auditorium, Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, Jos.
Speaking as the Special Guest of Honour, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu emphasized that realistic training directly influences operational outcomes. He noted that training must be designed to foster inquisitive mindsets among trainees, enabling them to learn, unlearn, and relearn the fundamentals of tactical and operational procedures in line with evolving security challenges.
According to him, Divisional Training Officers play a critical role in shaping the competence, mindset, and resilience of officers and soldiers. He stressed that leadership is central to military effectiveness, noting that “an army is only as good as its leaders, and leaders are only as good as their training.”
He added that the quality of leadership on the battlefield is directly linked to the quality of training designed, supervised, and enforced by DTOs.
The COAS further highlighted the importance of troop welfare, stating that effective training cannot be achieved without motivated and well-cared-for personnel. He urged DTOs to prioritize the welfare of trainees and to promote healthy competition by recognizing and rewarding outstanding performance during training.
Lieutenant General Shaibu also commended the efforts of DTOs in post-depot training initiatives, particularly exercises such as Exercise Shining Star, which he described as vital in building confidence, discipline, and combat effectiveness among young soldiers.
The training week, themed “Enhancing Operational Readiness: Adaptive Training Strategies for Evolving Threats,” is aimed at providing a platform for Divisional Training Officers and other participants to exchange ideas, review lessons learned from previous training activities, and develop strategies to improve training outcomes in divisional training schools ahead of the new training year.
Earlier in his welcome address, the General Officer Commanding 3 Division and Commander, Operation ENDURING PEACE, Major General Folusho Oyinlola, expressed delight at hosting the training week.
He underscored its importance and encouraged participants to approach the programme with professionalism and reflection, using the forum to deepen their understanding of adaptive training strategies and refine their instructional and supervisory competencies.
Major General Oyinlola urged participants to actively engage in lectures and discussions, contribute meaningfully during interactive sessions, and internalize insights from the distinguished resource persons.
Also speaking, the Convener of the workshop and Chief of Training (Army), Major General Valentine Okoro, expressed appreciation to the COAS for his unwavering commitment to training as a cornerstone of military professionalism. He advised DTOs to ensure that all divisional training activities remain realistic, mission-oriented, and aligned with the realities of the operating environment.
Highlights of the opening ceremony included the presentation of a souvenir to the Special Guest of Honour and a group photograph.
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