COAS Tasks Army Chief Clerks On Professionalism, Declares 2025 Convention Open In Ibadan
•By KAZEEM OYENIYI
IBADAN – THE Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has charged Nigerian Army personnel, particularly chief clerks to embrace innovation, technology, and modern administrative tools in order to strengthen the military’s operational efficiency in combating crime nationwide.
The COAS gave the charge on Monday while declaring open the 2025 Nigerian Army Chief Clerks’ Convention at the Eledua Hall, Ojoo, Ibadan.
The COAS was represented at the event by the Chief of Personnel Management, Maj. Gen. Adewale Adekeye.
In his remarks, Lt. Gen. Shaibu stressed the indispensable role of clerks in ensuring accuracy, confidentiality, and effective communication within the Army’s command structure. He noted that chief clerks remain a vital link between commanders’ intentions and the execution of operational orders.
He said, “You are custodians of records and critical advisers to your officers and commanders. Your devotion to duty, knowledge, and precision must always align with command objectives to sustain the efficiency and reputation of the Nigerian Army.
Speaking on the theme of this year’s convention, “Enhancing Clerks’ Effectiveness in Supporting Nigerian Army Operations in a Joint Environment,” the COAS underscored the need for the clerical cadre to transition from traditional record-keeping to digital documentation and data-driven administration.
He added that the chief clerks’ contributions remain central to effective decision-making, personnel welfare, and operational success.
“I urge all participants to seize the opportunities this convention presents, share knowledge, and enhance their skills in line with the Army’s vision for administrative excellence and operational readiness. Your commitment today strengthens the Nigerian Army of tomorrow,” he said.
Earlier in his welcome address, the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 2 Division, Maj. Gen. Chinedu Nnebeife, expressed his delight at hosting the nationwide gathering of the Army’s senior administrative personnel.
Describing the convention as a testament to the Army’s commitment to institutional efficiency, the GOC emphasized that sound administration remains the backbone of successful military operations.
“While combat arms execute missions in the field, it is the robust administrative framework anchored by our clerks and human resource professionals that ensures accountability and continuity of effort,” he said.
Maj. Gen. Nnebeife urged participants to actively engage in discussions, adopt emerging technologies, and uphold the core values of loyalty, diligence, confidentiality, and selfless service.
He further encouraged the adoption of automation, digital record-keeping, and secure data management systems, noting that these tools are essential for safeguarding personnel information and improving administrative decision-making.
“The clerk’s pen is as powerful as the soldier’s rifle,” he said. “It can build or destroy institutions. Therefore, let integrity and accountability guide your actions at all times.”
The 2025 Chief Clerks’ Convention brought together administrative personnel from Army divisions, formations, and units across the country for capacity development, mentorship, and strategic discussions aimed at improving the Army’s human resource and administrative systems.