By Bavoriat Clara
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS) of the Nigerian Army, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has arrived in the Republic of Liberia on an official visit to participate in the country’s 69th Armed Forces Day Celebration scheduled for Tuesday, 11 February 2026.
In a statement issued by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, Lieutenant General Shaibu is attending the event at the invitation of the Armed Forces of Liberia, a move that underscores the long-standing military and diplomatic ties between both countries. Upon his arrival, the Nigerian Army chief was warmly received by the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of Liberia, Major General Davidson Forley.
In a display of military honour and mutual respect, the COAS inspected a Guard of Honour mounted by the Armed Forces of Liberia. The ceremonial reception highlighted the enduring professional relationship between the Nigerian Army and the Armed Forces of Liberia, as well as the high regard in which Nigeria’s military is held by the Liberian authorities.
As part of his official engagements, Lieutenant General Shaibu also paid a courtesy visit to the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in Liberia, where he was received by the Chargé d’Affaires, Ambassador Rahmat Muhammad. During the visit, the COAS interacted with embassy staff and commended their efforts in strengthening Nigeria–Liberia bilateral relations and protecting the interests of Nigerians in the host country.
The visit further reaffirms Nigeria’s commitment to defence diplomacy, enhanced bilateral military cooperation and the promotion of regional security collaboration within the West African sub-region. Lieutenant General Shaibu’s participation in the Armed Forces Day Celebration also reflects Nigeria’s resolve to foster professional solidarity and strategic partnerships with sister African militaries in addressing emerging security challenges.
The Nigerian Army chief is expected to deliver an address at the 69th Armed Forces Day Celebration, during which Liberia will mark its military heritage, operational achievements and the vital role of the Armed Forces in national development and stability.
Lieutenant General Shaibu previously served as Military Assistant to a former Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of Liberia. In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the development of Liberia’s defence sector, he was awarded the Distinguished Service Order, one of the country’s highest military honours.
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