By Atoyebi Nike
Major General Waidi Shaibu has officially taken command of the Nigerian Army as its 25th Chief of Army Staff, pledging to uphold discipline, unity, and professionalism while addressing the country’s evolving security challenges.
Speaking during the handing and taking-over ceremony at the Army Headquarters in Abuja, Shaibu vowed to consolidate ongoing reforms and enhance inter-agency cooperation to improve operational efficiency.
“I will do everything to advance the transformation of the Nigerian Army into a professional, innovative, formidable force agile, adaptable, and combat-resilient,” he stated.
Shaibu assured troops across various theatres of operation of his commitment to their welfare and morale, acknowledging their sacrifices and resilience.
“I understand your sacrifices and the challenges you face. I feel your pain, and I feel for your families. We shall not disappoint you,” he said.
He praised his predecessor, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, now the Chief of Defence Staff, for his “empathy, foresight, and transformational leadership,” adding that he would sustain the “Soldier First” concept introduced under Oluyede’s command.
Shaibu expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the appointment, pledging to justify the confidence reposed in him.
“It is a great honour to assume this position at a critical point in our national life,” he noted.
In his valedictory remarks, General Oluyede thanked President Tinubu for supporting military reforms and commended officers and soldiers for their dedication.
“You have all worked tirelessly and endured immense hardship in defence of our nation. I have no doubt that the Army is in capable hands,” Oluyede said, pledging his full support to his successor.
The Chief of Policy and Plans, Major General Abdulsalami Abraham, described the transition as a “defining moment” for the Nigerian Army, commending Oluyede’s compassionate leadership and expressing confidence in Shaibu’s ability to sustain progress.
“There was much compassion and inclusiveness, especially towards our troops, without whom our ranks as generals are meaningless,” he remarked.
