The Foundation for Democracy in Africa (FDA) has congratulated the officers and men of the Nigerian Army following the service’s recognition as “Africa’s Best National Army in Counter‑Terrorism Operations for 2025.”
The continental award was conferred by African Security Watch at a ceremony in Banjul, The Gambia. In a statement, the FDA said the accolade affirms the leadership of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant‑General Waidi Shaibu, and the impact of his command philosophy, PROSE.
Lt.‑Gen. Shaibu unveiled the PROSE doctrine on February 25, 2026, while addressing officers of Senior Course 48 at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji. He described the policy as a response to Nigeria’s complex security environment and said it places emphasis on character, courage and concern for personnel.
The FDA credited PROSE with sharpening the army’s operational posture, saying it had improved motivation, tactical agility and interagency collaboration. The statement highlighted recent successes attributed to the doctrine, including rescues of kidnapped victims, disruption of terrorist plots and dismantling of criminal networks.
Hassan Mohammed of the Foundation said: “This award is a testament to the sweat, sacrifice and strategic improvements of a revitalised force. Lt.‑Gen. Shaibu’s command philosophy has strengthened the Army’s operational capabilities and set a continental benchmark for counter‑terrorism.”
The foundation also praised the COAS for dedicating the award to fallen soldiers and their families, calling the gesture an indication of the doctrine’s focus on personnel welfare.
The trophy was received in Banjul and formally presented to the COAS at Army Headquarters in Abuja by Maj.‑Gen. Tariweriye Gagariga. The FDA called on Nigerians, civil society and international partners to continue supporting the army and urged the military to sustain its momentum through intelligence‑led operations and strengthened civil‑military cooperation.
