Maj. Gen. Shaibu Takes Over as 25th COAS, Vows to Uphold Legacy of Exemplary Leadership
The Nigerian Army on Thursday witnessed a smooth transition of leadership as Major General Waidi Shaibu officially took over as the 25th Chief of Army Staff (COAS) from Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, who has been appointed the new Chief of Defence Staff (CDS). The handing and taking over ceremony was held at the Army Headquarters in Abuja.
In his inaugural remarks, Major General Shaibu commended his predecessor for his outstanding leadership and immense contributions to the growth of the Nigerian Army. He particularly lauded General Oluyede’s achievements in equipment procurement, infrastructural development, and his “Soldier First” initiative, which prioritized troop welfare and operational readiness.
The new Army Chief pledged to sustain and build on the legacies of his predecessor, with a renewed focus on synergy among security agencies and other government institutions to strengthen national security.
“I salute the courage, passion, resilience and discipline of our troops in the field. Their sacrifices remain the cornerstone of our collective success,” Major General Shaibu stated.
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He assured that his administration would carefully assess the evolving security landscape and respond swiftly to emerging threats, emphasizing his commitment to improving operational efficiency, troop morale, and overall professionalism within the Army.
While expressing gratitude to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for the confidence reposed in him, Major General Shaibu led senior Army officers in observing a minute of silence in honor of fallen comrades.
In his valedictory remarks, the outgoing COAS and newly appointed CDS, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve the nation in both capacities. He also commended officers and soldiers for their loyalty, dedication, and sacrifice, urging them to continue supporting the new leadership.
“The mission remains the same — to ensure the security of lives and defend the territorial integrity of our nation,” General Oluyede affirmed.
Earlier, the immediate past Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Major General Abdulsalami Ibrahim, described General Oluyede as a selfless and visionary leader whose legacy of commitment and foresight would remain indelible in the annals of 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 group photographs with principal staff officers and field commanders.
By PRNigeria
