Date: October 30, 2025
The new Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Maj.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has vowed to confront terrorism and other security threats across the country head-on.
Shaibu made the declaration on Thursday in Abuja shortly after assuming command as the 25th Chief of Army Staff from his predecessor, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, who has been appointed the new Chief of Defence Staff.
The Chief of Army Staff pledged to make the Nigerian Army more agile, professional, and combat-ready to restore lasting peace and stability nationwide.
He acknowledged that the country was passing through challenging times but assured that under his leadership, the Chief of Army Staff’s office would respond decisively and effectively to all emerging threats.
“We are aware of the developing situations in parts of our dear country that have caused hardship, fear, and displacement among law-abiding citizens. These situations are unacceptable and will receive my urgent attention. I will carefully review ongoing operations and adopt strategies to mitigate and ultimately defeat the threats. I assure Mr. President and Nigerians that we shall not disappoint the nation,” Shaibu said.
Maj.-Gen. Shaibu also promised to build on the achievements recorded under Lt.-Gen. Oluyede, noting that the outgoing Chief of Army Staff had made remarkable progress in equipment procurement, infrastructure, and troops’ welfare.
He pledged to deepen the “soldier-first” philosophy introduced by his predecessor while promoting professionalism, discipline, and stronger synergy with other security agencies.
Earlier, the outgoing Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Oluyede, expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for the opportunity to serve, stating that the Army under his leadership made significant strides in both operations and administration.
Oluyede commended officers and soldiers for their loyalty, discipline, and courage, urging them to extend the same support and commitment to the new Chief of Army Staff.
“As I move to my next appointment, I urge you to give even greater loyalty and commitment to Maj.-Gen. Shaibu, who is a thoroughbred officer with exceptional experience,” Oluyede said.
He reaffirmed his confidence in the Nigerian Army’s capacity to safeguard the nation’s territorial integrity, stressing that the goal of a secure and united Nigeria remains a collective responsibility.
In his remarks, the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Maj.-Gen. Abdulsalami Ibrahim, lauded the outgoing Chief of Army Staff for prioritizing troops’ welfare and professionalism, noting that his tenure would remain a model of empathy and effective leadership. Visit http://gmtnewsng.com for more news.
