Nigerian Army Named Africa’s Best in Counter-Terrorism Operations for 2025

The Nigerian Army has been named Africa’s Best National Army in Counter-Terrorism Operations for 2025, in recognition of its sustained and strategic efforts in combating terrorism, insurgency, and violent extremism across the continent.

The honour was presented by African Security Watch at the 19th Africa Security Watch Awards Ceremony held in Banjul, The Gambia, and later formally presented to the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, at the Army Headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday, July 29, 2026.

The award was first received on behalf of the Nigerian Army by Major General Teriworie Gagariga, who represented the service at the continental ceremony.

In a statement issued by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the recognition was described as a reflection of the Army’s operational excellence, strategic leadership, and unwavering commitment to restoring peace in areas affected by insecurity.

African Security Watch commended the Nigerian Army for its effectiveness in joint military operations, intelligence-driven missions, civil-military cooperation, force development, and continuous training and capacity building.

According to the organisation, these sustained efforts have significantly degraded terrorist networks, improved security in affected communities, and strengthened peace and stability not only within Nigeria but across the West African sub-region.

Receiving the award in Abuja, Lieutenant General Shaibu described the recognition as a tribute to the bravery, discipline, professionalism, and sacrifices of Nigerian Army personnel engaged in ongoing counter-terrorism operations.

He dedicated the honour to fallen soldiers who paid the ultimate price in service to the nation, as well as to their families, whose resilience continues to inspire the force.

“This recognition belongs to every officer and soldier who has served with courage, dedication, and unwavering commitment to protecting the sovereignty of our nation. We also honour our fallen heroes whose sacrifices made achievements like this possible,” he said.

The Army Chief reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to sustaining its operational gains through enhanced intelligence-led operations, improved training, stronger inter-agency collaboration, and continued investment in personnel welfare.

He also noted that the Army is undergoing continuous transformation to become a more professional, technologically advanced, adaptive, and combat-ready force capable of responding effectively to evolving security threats.

The recognition comes amid intensified military operations against insurgents, terrorists, bandits, and other criminal groups across various parts of the country.

In recent months, the Nigerian Army has increased the use of coordinated land and air operations, strengthened intelligence gathering, and deepened collaboration with other security agencies to dismantle terrorist networks, reclaim occupied communities, and restore stability in conflict-affected regions.

Beyond Nigeria, the Army has also contributed to regional peace and security through joint operations and partnerships with neighbouring countries facing similar security challenges.

Security analysts say the award highlights growing international recognition of Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts while underscoring the need for continued investment in military training, modern equipment, intelligence capabilities, and troop welfare.

The latest honour further cements the Nigerian Army’s position as one of Africa’s leading military forces in the fight against terrorism and violent extremism, reflecting years of operational experience and ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening national and regional security.