…Pledges to Sustain Legacy of Exemplary Leadership
The Nigerian Army has witnessed a seamless transition of leadership as Major General Waidi Shaibu formally assumed duty as the 25th Chief of Army Staff (COAS). The handover ceremony took place at the Army Headquarters, Abuja, marking the official transfer of leadership from the outgoing COAS and newly appointed Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede.
According to a statement by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, the event was marked by decorum, professionalism, and military tradition.
In his inaugural address, Major General Shaibu commended Lieutenant General Oluyede for his exemplary leadership, mentorship, and unwavering dedication to the Nigerian Army. He lauded the outgoing Chief’s achievements in equipment procurement, infrastructural development, and the “Soldier First” concept, which prioritized troop welfare and operational readiness.
The new COAS pledged to consolidate on these achievements while fostering stronger inter-agency synergy and collaboration with relevant institutions to enhance national security. He further assured that his administration would review ongoing operations and adapt to emerging security threats with precision and speed.
“I salute the courage, passion, resilience, and discipline of our troops in the field. Their sacrifices remain the cornerstone of our collective success,” Major General Shaibu stated, while pledging to boost operational efficiency and troop morale.
He expressed profound gratitude to the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for entrusting him with the responsibility to lead the Nigerian Army. The new COAS also led senior officers in observing a minute silence in honour of fallen heroes.
In his valedictory remarks, Lieutenant General Oluyede appreciated President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve as COAS and now as CDS. He commended officers and soldiers for their dedication and urged them to maintain their loyalty and professionalism under the new leadership. “The mission remains the same — to ensure the security of lives and defend the territorial integrity of our nation,” he stated.
Earlier, the immediate past Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Major General Abdulsalami Ibrahim, extolled the leadership qualities of the outgoing COAS, describing him as a selfless and visionary leader whose impact will endure in the annals of Army history.
Highlights of the ceremony included the signing of handing and taking over notes, 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.
