By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini
Major General Waidi Shaibu has formally taken over as Nigeria’s 25th Chief of Army Staff (COAS) in a ceremony at the Army Headquarters in Abuja.
The event on Thursday marked a transition of leadership from the former COAS, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, who is now the incoming Chief of Defence Staff (CDS).
In his inaugural address, Major General Shaibu commended his predecessor for his “outstanding leadership,” highlighting achievements in equipment procurement, infrastructure, and the “Soldier First” welfare initiative.
He pledged to sustain this legacy and enhance cooperation among security agencies to tackle national security challenges.
“I salute the courage, passion, resilience and discipline of our troops in the field. Their sacrifices remain the cornerstone of our collective success,” the new Army Chief stated.
Shaibu also thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the appointment and promised to carefully review the security situation to respond swiftly to emerging threats.
In his valedictory speech, Lieutenant General Oluyede thanked the President for the opportunity to serve and urged army personnel to extend the same loyalty and commitment to the new COAS.
“The mission remains the same — to ensure the security of lives and defend the territorial integrity of our nation,” he affirmed.
The ceremony featured the signing of handover notes, the decoration of the new Chief with the Army Headquarters insignia, and an inspection of the quarter guard.