Maj Gen Waidi Shaibu Takes Over as 25th Chief of Army Staff

 Maj Gen Waidi Shaibu Takes Over as 25th Chief of Army Staff

 The Nigerian Army has witnessed a smooth change of command as Major General Waidi Shaibu on Wednesday formally assumed office as the 25th Chief of Army Staff (COAS). The ceremony, held at the Army Headquarters in Abuja, followed the elevation of the former COAS, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, to the position of Chief of Defence Staff (CDS).

In his remarks, Major General Shaibu commended his predecessor for what he described as outstanding leadership and significant contributions to the development of the Nigerian Army. He highlighted improvements in equipment procurement, infrastructure and welfare under the “Soldier First” initiative.

The new Army Chief pledged to sustain and build on these achievements, adding that strengthening synergy among security agencies and enhancing the morale of troops in various theatres of operation would remain key priorities.

“I salute the courage, passion, resilience and discipline of our troops across the country. Their sacrifices remain the cornerstone of our collective success,” he said. Shaibu also expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the confidence reposed in him.

In his valedictory address, the outgoing COAS and new CDS, Lieutenant General Oluyede, thanked the President for the opportunity to serve. He urged officers and soldiers to extend the same loyalty and commitment to the new Army Chief, stressing that the Nigerian Army’s mandate to defend the nation remains unchanged.

Earlier, the immediate past Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Major General Abdulsalami Ibrahim, described the outgoing COAS as a visionary leader whose legacy would endure.

Highlights of the event included the signing of handing over documents, decoration of the new COAS, inspection of the quarter guard, and group photographs with senior military officers.