Respect Civilians, Crush Criminality, Army Chief Tells 4 Brigade Troops

by MIKE OSAROGIAGBON

Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has charged troops of the 4 Brigade Nigerian Army, Benin City, to respect civilians’ rights while dealing decisively with criminal elements in their area of responsibility.

He urged the soldiers to operate within the confines of the law, protect innocent citizens and uphold professionalism in the discharge of their duties.

Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu gave the charge during his maiden operational visit to the Brigade Headquarters on Friday, November 6, 2026.

In a press release, the Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 4 Brigade Nigerian Army, Benin City, Captain Kennedy Anyanwu, said the COAS also commended the troops for their discipline, professionalism and operational effectiveness, which had helped restore public confidence in the Nigerian Army in Edo State.

According to the release, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu assured the personnel that arrangements would be made to renovate their accommodation and provide a new bus to address transportation challenges facing the Brigade.

Capt. Anyanwu said the visiting Army Chief also reiterated his commitment to providing functional medical facilities for soldiers and their families, including their children.

Describing personnel welfare as critical to operational effectiveness, Shaibu said it remained a major priority under his Soldiers First Culture.

He urged the troops to reciprocate the gesture through discipline, loyalty and renewed commitment to duty.

The COAS also commended the Commander of 4 Brigade, Brigadier General Ahmed Balogun, for his leadership and effective collaboration with sister security agencies and other stakeholders, in line with the Strategic Cooperation Pillar of his Command Philosophy.

Earlier, Brig. Gen. Balogun welcomed the COAS and briefed him on the security situation within the Brigade’s area of responsibility, as well as the administrative and logistical challenges confronting the formation.

He expressed appreciation for the visit and the assurances of improved welfare, pledging that officers and soldiers would remain committed to sustaining operational gains and consolidating existing security achievements.