By Sumaila Ogbaje
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has challenged the Nigerian Army Resource Centre (NARC) to deepen its research efforts and explore fresh knowledge-driven strategies to tackle Nigeria’s evolving security threats.
Shaibu, represented by the Chief of Administration (Army), Maj.-Gen. Isa Abdullahi, gave the charge at the 10th anniversary of the centre, on Wednesday in Abuja.
He said that NARC must step up its role as the Army’s premier think tank as the nation faces increasingly complex security challenges.
“There is still much more to be done. As you commence the next decade, I charge the management and staff of the centre to build on current achievements and deepen your search for innovative solutions that can enhance operational and tactical outcomes in the field,” he said.
The COAS emphasised that Nigeria’s multifaceted security threats require adaptable, intelligence-led and research-backed interventions, adding that NARC must remain at the forefront of generating fresh ideas for defence and national security policy.
He urged the centre to strengthen its collaborations with local and international institutions, saying such partnerships would broaden its research capacity and improve the quality of strategic insights delivered to the military and government.
Shaibu also commended the centre’s contributions in publishing research papers, conducting training and providing policy guidance, describing it as “a beacon of knowledge and strategic power.”
“Your work has strengthened our national security framework, but the demands of the future require even more forward-looking research, creativity and innovation,” he added.
While congratulating the management and staff of NARC on the milestone, the COAS reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s loyalty to the Constitution and appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his support.
Earlier in his remarks, Director-General of the Centre, retired Maj.-Gen. James Myam, said the anniversary symbolised “a decade of dedication to knowledge, strategic foresight and national service.”
Myam noted that the centre had grown from a small research outfit into a national hub for defence innovation, strategy development and capacity building.
He said NARC had invested significantly in research programmes, simulation training, policy development and partnerships that have improved the army’s ability to anticipate and respond to emerging threats.
The Director-General added that the centre was already refocusing its next decade around deeper research, technology adoption and global partnerships.
“In ten years, we have built an institution that provides timely insights, nurtures critical thinking and strengthens the intellectual backbone of our military.
“Our goal is to ensure that the Nigerian Army has the intellectual tools and strategic support to stay ahead of threats in an increasingly unpredictable world,” he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event featured a lecture titled, “Knowledge, Power and National Security in the 21st Century: Nigeria in Perspective,” delivered by a former defence chief, retired Gen. Martin Luther Agwai.
Also in attendance were two former COAS, Lt -Gen. Tukur Buratai and Lt.-Gen. Faruk Yahaya, among several other retired and serving officers and other dignitaries.
The event also featured the unveiling of the NARC Journal. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Yakubu Uba
