The appointment of Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu as the 25th Chief of Army Staff (COAS) signals a new chapter for the Nigerian Army, emphasizing enhanced combat readiness, operational effectiveness, and intelligence-driven strategies. Known for his battlefield experience and steadfast leadership, Shaibu’s rise has been met with approval from troops and military analysts alike.
A Leader Forged in Combat
Lieutenant General Shaibu is a soldier whose authority stems not from rank alone, but from decades of frontline experience. From the volatile regions of Lake Chad to the dense Sambisa Forest, he has led troops in the most challenging theatres of counter-insurgency operations, facing Boko Haram and ISWAP militants directly. His leadership is defined by lived experience, resilience, and tactical acumen, earning the trust and respect of those under his command.
Shaibu’s courage was notably demonstrated during the daring assault on Wulgo, where as a Colonel he navigated treacherous waterways and sustained injuries in action but continued the mission. This commitment has become symbolic of his unwavering loyalty to his troops and to Nigeria’s national security.
Battle-Tested and Academically Equipped
Born on December 18, 1971, in Kogi State, Shaibu entered the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1989 and was commissioned into the Armoured Corps in 1994. A mechanical engineer by training, he holds advanced degrees in Strategic Studies, Security and Strategic Studies, and Public Administration, including training from the Harvard Kennedy School of Government.
Throughout his career, he has commanded critical formations, including 21 Special Armoured Brigade, GOC 7 Division, and Commander of Sector 1, Operation HADIN KAI. He has participated in major operations such as LAFIYA DOLE, HARMONY, HADIN KAI, and DESERT SANITY, earning the Distinguished Service Star, Meritorious Service Star, and Purple Heart Medal for gallantry.
Redefining Army Leadership
As COAS, Shaibu is expected to consolidate institutional reforms, strengthen operational synergy, and deepen intelligence-led warfare. His leadership style emphasizes discipline, professionalism, and a hands-on approach that inspires confidence among soldiers. Troops respect him not just for his office but for his shared experiences on the battlefield, fostering a culture of trust and cohesion within the Army.
A Symbol of Stability in Uncertain Times
At a moment when Nigeria faces evolving security challenges, Shaibu represents steady leadership anchored in experience, strategy, and personal sacrifice. His story is emblematic of a generation of Nigerian soldiers who have endured combat, upheld duty, and remained committed to safeguarding the nation. Under his guidance, the Nigerian Army aims to enhance readiness, drive reform, and ensure that operational capability matches the growing demands of national security.
Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu’s appointment is more than a promotion; it is a reaffirmation that Nigeria’s defense leadership is in the hands of one who has lived the trials of modern warfare and stands ready to lead the Army into a new era of operational excellence.
