The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigerian Army to promoting human rights, strengthening civil-military relations and ensuring strict adherence to International Humanitarian Law (IHL) as essential components of national security.
A statement signed by Colonel Appolonia Anele Acting Director Army Public Relations said he emphasized that protecting civilians and respecting humanitarian principles enhance operational effectiveness and reinforce public confidence in the Armed Forces.
The COAS stated this on Wednesday, 15 July 2026, while receiving the Head of Delegation of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Nigeria, Miss Doris El Doueihy, during a courtesy visit to the Army Headquarters, Abuja. He described the ICRC as a trusted strategic partner whose longstanding collaboration with the Nigerian Army continues to strengthen humanitarian action, operational professionalism and stability in conflict-affected areas.
Lieutenant General Shaibu reaffirmed that the Nigerian Army has fully integrated International Humanitarian Law, human rights principles and standard rules of engagement into training at all levels. He noted that the Army remains committed to implementing the Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Plan, improving detention management, facilitating humanitarian access and adopting global best practices that support mission success while safeguarding civilian lives.
Earlier, Miss El Doueihy commended the Nigerian Army for its professionalism, transparency and sustained cooperation, which have significantly enhanced the safe delivery of humanitarian assistance and the protection of vulnerable communities. She also acknowledged the Army’s progress in detention management and its commitment to upholding internationally accepted humanitarian standards.
