By Bavoriat Clara
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Thursday, 11 December 2025, paid a courtesy visit to the Oba of Lagos, His Royal Majesty Oba Rilwan Akiolu I, at his palace in Lagos.
According to a statement by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the visit was aimed at expressing the Army Chief’s appreciation to the monarch and the council of Obas for their consistent support to the Nigerian Army. General Shaibu noted that his visit was also to seek the royal father’s blessings, emphasising that Nigeria’s customs and traditions remain sacred and must be respected.
The COAS commended Oba Akiolu for his continuous fatherly role and unwavering support to Army formations and institutions across Lagos State. He described the monarch’s counsel, goodwill and collaboration as invaluable to the Nigerian Army’s operations and its civil–military relations across the state.
In his remarks, Oba Akiolu lauded the Nigerian Army for its steadfast commitment to national security and peace. He described the Army as a critical pillar of the nation, noting that the professionalism and sacrifices of its personnel have remained instrumental to maintaining stability across Nigeria.
The Oba also praised General Shaibu for his purposeful leadership and dedication to strengthening security nationwide. He offered special prayers for lasting peace in the country and for the continued success of the COAS as the 25th Chief of Army Staff.
The visit, the statement added, reaffirms the Nigerian Army’s commitment to fostering strong partnerships with traditional institutions, recognising their vital role in promoting peace and supporting national security efforts.
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