The Army War College Nigeria (AWCN) on Wednesday, 7 May 2025, received a delegation from the Center for Civilians in Conflict (CIVIC), led by Mr Vianney Bisimwa, Director for Africa, during a courtesy visit held at the College Conference Room in Asokoro, Abuja. The visit was part of ongoing efforts to strengthen collaboration between AWCN and CIVIC in promoting ethical standards and best practices in military operations.

In his remarks, Mr Bisimwa commended the College for its professionalism and existing collaboration with CIVIC. He emphasized that the success of military operations must be balanced with the obligation to protect civilians in conflict environments, calling for deeper integration of these values into leadership training at AWCN. He noted that achieving military success must go hand-in-hand with minimizing harm to non-combatants, especially in complex operational environments.

“Military effectiveness must not come at the expense of civilian lives. Protecting civilians in conflict is not only a moral obligation, it is a strategic imperative,” he said.

“Institutions like AWCN are key to shaping a military culture that values restraint, accountability, and the dignity of human life,” he added.

While responding, the Commandant AWCN thanked Mr Bisimwa for the visit and assured the delegation that AWCN remains committed to producing strategic leaders who understand the importance of ethical conduct in complex operational environments.

“Strategic leadership today demands more than battlefield competence; it requires an understanding of the human terrain and a firm commitment to humanitarian values,” the Commandant said.

“Our efforts at AWCN are guided by my Command Philosophy: ‘To Consolidate AWCN as a Professional Military Education Centre of Excellence.’ This aligns with the Chief of Army Staff’s resolve to build a highly professional Army. Embracing partnerships like this one is key to achieving that goal,” he emphasized.

The visit concluded with a renewed commitment to collaborate between AWCN and CIVIC, reinforcing the shared objective of promoting responsible military leadership and the protection of civilians in conflict. Both parties expressed optimism about future engagements that will further enhance strategic military education and operational effectiveness in line with global best practices.

Highlights of the visit included the presentation of souvenirs, signing of the visitors’ book, and a group photograph to commemorate the occasion.