COAS Emphasizes Combat Readiness: Charges DTOs “Train Like You Fight'”
In a resolute acknowledgement of the critical role of Divisional Training Officers within the Nigerian Army, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu Nigerian Army Medal has charged Divisional Training Officers (DTOs) to be Sound, realistic and progressive in the conduct of trainings as training remains the bedrock of operational success.
The COAS made these remarks on Tuesday, 20 January 2026, during the opening ceremony of the week-long Division Training Officers Training Week, organized by Army Headquarters Department of Training at the 3 Division Auditorium, Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, Jos. The workshop with the theme “Enhancing Operational Readiness: Adaptive Training Strategies for Evolving Threat” was designed to provide a platform for Division Training Officers and other participants to compare notes and come up with modalities to enhance training in their respective Division Training Schools. Also, enable them to prepare for the training year ahead, considering lessons learnt from past training activities.
In his remarks, the COAS who was the special guest of honour for the opening ceremony, affirmed that realistic training directly influences operational outcomes and as such, training activities must foster inquisitive mindsets in the trainees to learn, unlearn and relearn the rudiments of implementing tactical and operational training policies and procedures.
He stated that “As Divisional Training Officers, you play a critical role in shaping the competence, mindset and resilience of our officers and soldiers. In this regard, leadership is a critical element as an army is only as good as its leaders and leaders are only as good as their training. This truth places upon you a profound responsibility, for the quality of leadership on the battlefield is directly linked to the quality of training you design, supervise and enforce.”
The COAS also emphasized that effective training cannot take place without motivated and well-cared-for personnel. Therefore, DTOs must continue to prioritize the welfare of troops undergoing training. Equally, he urged the DTOs to encourage high standard and healthy competition among trainees by acknowledging outstanding performance during training.
He further commended the DTOs for their efforts in post-depot training, especially initiatives such as Exercise Shining Star which he noted that the efforts are essential in building confidence, discipline and combat effectiveness in our young soldiers.
Earlier in his welcome address, the General Officer Commanding 3 Division and Commander Operation ENDURING PEACE Major General Folusho Oyinlola expressed his delight being the host of the training week while emphasizing its importance. He encouraged the participants to approach the programme with a professional and reflective mindset, using the forum to deepen their understanding of adaptive training strategies, exchange practical ideas and refine their instructional and supervisory competencies. He therefore urged all participants to take full advantage of the programme lined up for the training week, engage actively in the lectures and discussions, contribute meaningfully during interactive sessions and internalize the insights that will be shared by the distinguished resource persons.
While delivering his remarks, the Convener of the workshop, the Chief of Training (Army), Major General Valentine Okoro also expressed profound appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff for his unwavering recognition of training as a cornerstone of military professionalism and for acknowledging its indispensable role in shaping effective, efficient and successful military operations. He further advised the DTOs to ensure all divisional training activities to be realistic, mission-oriented and aligned with the realities of the operating environment.
Highlights of the opening ceremony include presentation of souvenir to the SGOH and a group photograph.
