Major General Waidi Shaibu has formally assumed duty as the 25th Chief of Army Staff (COAS), pledging to uphold discipline, unity, and professionalism while addressing Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.
Speaking at the handing and taking-over ceremony held on Thursday at the Army Headquarters in Abuja, Shaibu promised to consolidate ongoing reforms to strengthen operational effectiveness and inter-agency cooperation.
“I will do everything to advance the transformation of the Nigerian Army into a professional, innovative, formidable force agile, adaptable, and combat-resilient,” he said.
Addressing troops serving in various theatres of operation, Shaibu acknowledged their sacrifices and assured them of improved welfare and morale.
“I understand your sacrifices and the challenges you face. I feel your pain and that of your families. We shall not disappoint you,” he stated.
He commended his predecessor, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, describing his tenure as one defined by empathy, strategic foresight, and institutional progress.
“Lieutenant General Oluyede’s stewardship brought a quantum leap in equipment procurement, infrastructural development, and purposeful leadership that has placed the Nigerian Army on an enviable pedestal,” Shaibu noted, adding that he would sustain and improve on the ‘Soldier First’ policy introduced by Oluyede.
Expressing gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his appointment, Shaibu said he was honoured to lead the Nigerian Army at a crucial point in the nation’s history.
“I thank Almighty God for finding me worthy of this call to service and His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for entrusting me with this responsibility,” he said.
In his remarks, the outgoing Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, who has been appointed Chief of Defence Staff, reflected on his tenure and urged officers to remain loyal, disciplined, and professional.
“It is with deep humility and profound gratitude that I hand over the reins of leadership of the Nigerian Army to Major General Waidi Shaibu,” Oluyede said.
He commended troops for their resilience and dedication to national service and assured his successor of continued support.
“I have no doubt that the Nigerian Army is in capable hands. Waidi, my prayers and full support are with you. You can always count on me for guidance or advice whenever needed,” he added.
Oluyede reaffirmed his commitment to national security in his new capacity as Chief of Defence Staff, promising to continue efforts to eliminate terrorism, insurgency, and other threats to the country.
The Chief of Policy and Plans, Major General Abdulsalami Abraham, also lauded Oluyede’s compassionate leadership and expressed confidence in Shaibu’s ability to sustain the Army’s progress.
“There was much compassion and inclusiveness, especially towards our troops, without whom our ranks as generals are meaningless,” he said, describing the transition as a defining moment for the Nigerian Army.
