● Nigerian Army executes 250+ projects nationwide as part of civil-military outreach
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to placing citizens at the centre of national security, as he inaugurated renovated schools, a town hall and solar-powered boreholes across the three senatorial districts of Rivers State.
The projects were unveiled on Sunday as part of activities marking the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026, according to a statement signed by the Army Spokesperson, Colonel Appolonia Anele, and made available to Defence Correspondents in Abuja.
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—Projects commissioned in Rivers—
The interventions include:
1. Community Secondary School, Obio/Akpor LGA – Rivers East Senatorial District
2. Community Secondary School, Lueku (Lussue), Khana LGA – Rivers South-East Senatorial District
3. Community Town Hall, Oyigbo LGA – Rivers South-East Senatorial District
4. Solar-powered borehole, Degema LGA – Rivers West Senatorial District
Speaking at the event, General Shaibu described the projects as a reflection of the Army’s “deepening bond with the people.”
“Through our Civil-Military Cooperation initiatives, the Army is not only addressing security challenges but also responding to critical community needs that directly affect daily life,” the COAS said.
He explained that the renovations, rehabilitations and provision of water facilities are aimed at improving living standards and strengthening trust between the military and civilians.
“Sustainable security is built not only through military capability but through collaboration, shared responsibility and public support,” he added.
—-250+ projects nationwide—
The COAS disclosed that the Nigerian Army has executed over 250 intervention projects nationwide, including hospitals, classrooms, roads, ICT centres, solar lighting systems and water facilities.
He cited the transformation of previously dilapidated schools, such as the one in Rumumasi, into “safe and conducive learning environments,” noting that education remains a vital pillar for long-term peace and national stability.
General Shaibu commended the benefiting communities for their cooperation and urged residents to take ownership of the projects by safeguarding and maintaining them.
He also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for his support in enhancing the operational effectiveness of the Army. He reaffirmed the loyalty of officers, soldiers and civilian staff to the Constitution and to the defence of Nigeria’s sovereignty and unity.
—“Restoring dignity and hope”—
Earlier, the Chief of Civil-Military Affairs, Major General Musa Etsu-Ndagi, said the Rivers projects were executed under the Army’s Civil-Military Cooperation Programme to improve infrastructure and strengthen relationships with host communities.
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He noted that four key interventions were completed across the three senatorial districts of Rivers State to ensure equitable distribution and impact.
The Chairman of Obio/Akpor LGA, Honourable Gift Worlu, described the interventions as “transformative and impactful.”
“The renovated schools will significantly improve learning conditions and restore hope among students and teachers,” Worlu said. He assured that the facilities would be protected and properly maintained.
The statement added that the commissioning was more than the unveiling of infrastructure.
“It symbolised the restoration of dignity, opportunity and hope for students, teachers, and host communities,” it stated.
The event underscored the Nigerian Army’s commitment to not only defending the nation but also uplifting communities, reinforcing the belief that “true security is rooted in empowered, supported and hopeful citizens.”
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