COAS Commissions Special Intervention CIMIC Project In Panladan Zaria, Strengthens Civil-Military Partnership In Kaduna State

COAS Commissions Special Intervention CIMIC Project In Panladan Zaria, Strengthens Civil-Military Partnership In Kaduna State

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu NAM, has commissioned the Special Intervention Civil–Military Cooperation (CIMIC) Project at Government Secondary School, Panladan, Zaria in Sabon Gari Local Government Area of Kaduna State, as part of efforts to strengthen civil–military relations and promote sustainable community development.

The project which was executed by Major General AGL Haruna, Commander Nigerian Army Training Centre(NATRAC), comprised a newly constructed and fully furnished block of two classrooms and staff offices aimed at enhancing conducive teaching and learning environment in the School.

In his address, the Special Guest of Honour, COAS who was ably represented by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division Nigerian Army, Major General ASM Wase, stated that the Special Intervention CIMIC initiative remains a strategic non-kinetic component of the Nigerian Army’s operations, deliberately designed to foster trust, cooperation, and mutual understanding between the military and civil populace.

He emphasized that national security requires a society wholistic approach, noting that while the Nigerian Army intensifies kinetic operations against criminal elements, sustainable peace can only be achieved through development partnership with communities. He commended Major General Haruna for successfully delivering a project that directly addresses critical educational needs in the community.

The COAS reaffirmed his commitment to building a professional, people-centric, adaptive, and combat-ready Nigerian Army capable of operating effectively in joint and multi-agency environments.

Earlier in his remarks, Major General AGL Haruna expressed profound gratitude to the COAS for approving the project and providing the necessary support for its execution. He explained that the intervention was conceived after a need assessment in consultation with the community and school management to ensure it meets priority requirements.

He described Panladan as one of the oldest communities in Zaria with pressing developmental needs, including improved access roads, potable water supply, and fencing of the Government Secondary Schools and Cemetery. He appealed to relevant stakeholders to continue supporting the community in delivering additional developmental projects.

Also speaking at the ceremony, the Chief of Civil-Military Affairs, Major General MA Etsu-Ndagi represented by the Deputy Director Civil Affairs Colonel Y Micah, underscored that CIMIC projects remain a vital aspect of the Nigerian Army’s non-kinetic strategy, reinforcing the bond between the Armed Forces and the communities they serve.

In his remarks, His Royal Highness, Malam Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli CFR, Emir of Zazzau, ably represented by the Fagachin Zazzau Alhaji Umar Mohammed expressed deep appreciation to the Nigerian Army, the Chief of Army Staff, and the Project Executor for bringing the intervention to Panladan community. He commended the military for its sacrifices in safeguarding the nation and for complementing government efforts through people-oriented projects. The Emir assured the Nigerian Army of continued support and cooperation of the Zazzau Emirate, emphasizing that traditional institutions remain committed partners in promoting peace, stability, and security. He pledged sustained collaboration with security agencies to ensure the nation remains safe and peaceful.

Highlights of the event was the symbolic tree planting ceremony within the school premises, symbolizing growth, sustainability, and enduring partnership between the Nigerian Army and the Panladan community.

The ceremony was well attended by senior military officers including Commandants of Depot Nigerian Army Zaria and Nigerian Army schools within Zaria, government officials, heads of paramilitary agencies in Zaria, traditional leaders, community stakeholders, well wishers as well as teachers, and students who are the direct beneficiaries of the project. The event came to a close with group photographs.