By Bavoriat Clara
The Nigerian Army has witnessed a smooth transition of leadership as Major General Waidi Shaibu today formally assumed duty as the 25th Chief of Army Staff (COAS). The colourful handing and taking over ceremony took place at the Army Headquarters, Abuja, between Major General Shaibu and the newly appointed Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede.
In his maiden address, the new Chief of Army Staff commended Lieutenant General Oluyede for his outstanding leadership, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to the Nigerian Army. He particularly lauded his predecessor’s achievements in the areas of equipment procurement, infrastructural development, and the “Soldier First” initiative, which prioritized the welfare and operational readiness of personnel.
Major General Shaibu pledged to consolidate and build on these legacies while enhancing inter-agency synergy and collaboration to strengthen national security. He assured that under his command, the Nigerian Army would respond swiftly and decisively to emerging threats, with renewed focus on operational efficiency, troop morale, and professional excellence.
“I salute the courage, passion, resilience, and discipline of our troops in the field. Their sacrifices remain the cornerstone of our collective success,” he stated.
The new Army Chief also expressed gratitude to the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for the confidence reposed in him, pledging total loyalty and commitment to the defence of the nation. He thereafter led senior officers in observing a minute silence in honour of fallen comrades.
In his valedictory remarks, the outgone COAS and newly appointed CDS, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his visionary leadership and the opportunity to serve. He also appreciated officers and soldiers for their dedication and sacrifice, urging them to maintain their loyalty and professionalism under the new leadership.
“The mission remains the same — to safeguard the lives of Nigerians and defend the territorial integrity of our nation,” he emphasized.
Earlier, the immediate past Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Major General Abdulsalami Ibrahim, extolled Lieutenant General Oluyede’s exemplary leadership, describing him as a visionary and selfless commander whose legacy would continue to inspire the Nigerian Army.
The ceremony featured the signing of the handing and taking over notes, decoration of the new Chief with the Army Headquarters insignia, inspection of the Quarter Guard, and a group photograph with principal staff officers and field commanders.
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