The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has been conferred with the prestigious traditional title of “Omu Udo I of Ebonyi” by the Ebonyi State Council of Chiefs in recognition of his outstanding leadership and contributions to peace, security and national development.
The honour was bestowed on the Army Chief on Wednesday during an investiture ceremony held alongside the Passing Out Parade of the 90 Regular Recruit Intake at the Depot Nigerian Army, Amasiri-Edda, Ebonyi State.
The event brought together senior government officials, traditional rulers and military officers, highlighting the growing partnership between the Nigerian Army, the Ebonyi State Government and traditional institutions in promoting sustainable peace, strengthening civil-military relations and enhancing national security.
Presenting the traditional title, Ebonyi State Governor, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, described Lieutenant General Shaibu as “a proud son of the soil” whose exemplary service and commitment to national security have earned him the admiration and appreciation of the people of Ebonyi State.
The governor also commended the establishment of the Depot Nigerian Army, Amasiri-Edda, describing it as a landmark achievement under the COAS’s leadership. According to him, the military institution has strengthened security in the South-East, boosted socio-economic development and expanded opportunities for manpower development in support of Nigeria’s defence architecture.
Governor Nwifuru reaffirmed the state’s commitment to sustaining its partnership with the Nigerian Army and other critical stakeholders, stressing that collaboration among governments, security agencies and traditional institutions remains essential to building a peaceful, secure and prosperous nation.
The conferment of the title, he added, reflects Ebonyi State’s gratitude for the COAS’s enduring legacy of service, peace-building and development, while reinforcing the importance of community participation in advancing national security through stronger civil-military cooperation.
