Maj. Gen. Waidi Shaibu Assumes Duty as 25th Chief of Army Staff

By Passman Akpos

Abuja— The Nigerian Army yesterday witnessed a seamless transition of leadership as Major General Waidi Shaibu formally assumed duty as the 25th Chief of Army Staff (COAS), following a colourful handing and taking-over ceremony at the Army Headquarters, Abuja.

The event marked the official transfer of command from the outgoing COAS and newly appointed Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, to Major General Shaibu, in the presence of senior military officers and top defence officials.

In his inaugural remarks, the new COAS, Major General Shaibu, commended Lieutenant General Oluyede for his outstanding leadership, mentorship, and unwavering support to the Nigerian Army. He particularly lauded his predecessor’s achievements in equipment procurement, infrastructural development, and the implementation of the “Soldier First” concept — a policy that prioritized troop welfare, morale, and operational effectiveness.

Major General Shaibu pledged to consolidate and build upon the remarkable legacies of his predecessor, stressing his commitment to strengthening synergy among security agencies and other government institutions to enhance national security.

> “I salute the courage, passion, resilience and discipline of our troops in the field. Their sacrifices remain the cornerstone of our collective success,” he said.

He further assured that under his leadership, the Nigerian Army would maintain a proactive stance in tackling emerging threats while continuously improving operational efficiency and troop morale. He also expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for finding him worthy of the appointment, and led officers in observing a minute of silence in honour of fallen comrades.

In his valedictory address, the outgone COAS and incoming CDS, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, expressed profound gratitude to President Tinubu for his confidence and visionary leadership. He praised the officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army for their loyalty, diligence, and sacrifice, urging them to extend the same support to his successor.

> “The mission remains the same — to ensure the security of lives and defend the territorial integrity of our nation,” he affirmed.

Also speaking at the event, the immediate past Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Major General Abdulsalami Ibrahim, described Lieutenant General Oluyede as a selfless and visionary leader whose contributions would continue to inspire future generations of military officers.

Highlights of the ceremony included the signing of the handing and taking-over notes, the decoration of the new Army Chief with the Army Headquarters insignia, inspection of the quarter guard, and group photographs with principal staff officers and field commanders.