PERMANENT SECRETARY, MINISTRY OF DEFENCE PLEDGES SUPPORT TO ARMY HEADQUARTERS
Abuja – In a move aimed at bolstering civil-military synergy, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Mr. Richard Pheelangwa, paid a familiarization visit to the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, at the Army Headquarters in Abuja on Thursday, February 26, 2026. Mr. Pheelangwa stated that the visit was intended "to strengthen institutional engagements with the Army." He reiterated the Ministry's commitment to "resolving administrative bottlenecks, ensuring budgetary performance and execution, timely delivery of services, as well as transparent procurement process." The Permanent Secretary emphasized the Ministry's dedication to supporting the Military in achieving its national goals of protecting citizens' lives "in the most effective and efficient manner," highlighting welfare, human capital development, and engagement with the Defence Industry Corporations of Nigeria (DICON) for positive outcomes. In response, Lt. Gen. Shaibu emphasized several areas requiring urgent attention to enhance the Military's combat efficiency and effectiveness. These include "expansion of the Aviation wing of the military for timely response," an "increase in the number of Armed drones, timely releases of Capital budget, adequate accommodation facilities for newly recruited troops, permanent teaching staff in defence schools among others." He assured the Ministry of the Army’s full cooperation in achieving national goals. The event saw the presence of the Director of Press and Public Relations and the Director Army Affairs from the Ministry, alongside Principal Staff Officers of the Army Headquarters. The press release was issued by Enderline Chukwu, DD Information and Public Relations, for the Director Information and Public Relations.
