The Nigerian Army and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) have pledged to deepen their strategic partnership to enhance national security, protect civilian populations, and uphold humanitarian laws in conflict areas.
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, made this commitment on Wednesday in Abuja during a courtesy visit by the ICRC Head of Delegation in Nigeria, Miss Doris El Doueihy, to the Army Headquarters.
Gen. Shaibu emphasized that the protection of civilians and strict adherence to International Humanitarian Law (IHL) are not just legal obligations, but crucial elements that enhance military operational effectiveness and build public trust in the Armed Forces.
“Protecting civilians and respecting humanitarian principles reinforce public confidence in the military,” Gen. Shaibu said. He described the ICRC as a trusted partner whose long-standing collaboration has significantly boosted professionalism and stability in regions affected by conflict.
According to the Army chief, the military has fully integrated IHL, human rights principles, and standard rules of engagement into its training curricula at all levels.
He further noted that the Army remains committed to implementing its Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Plan, improving detention management, and ensuring humanitarian actors have safe access to vulnerable populations.
In her remarks, the ICRC Head of Delegation, Miss Doris El Doueihy, commended the Nigerian Army for its transparency, professionalism, and sustained cooperation. She noted that this partnership has facilitated the safe delivery of critical humanitarian aid to communities in need.
Miss El Doueihy also acknowledged the progress made by the Army in detention management, praising its commitment to upholding international humanitarian standards.
