A symbolic change of baton took place at the Nigerian Army Headquarters in Abuja following the appointment and Senate confirmation of new service chiefs by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday, October 29, 2025.
Major General Waidi Shaibu officially assumed duty as the 25th Chief of Army Staff (COAS) after a colourful handing-over ceremony with the outgoing Army Chief, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, who now serves as Chief of Defence Staff.
In his remarks, General Shaibu commended Oluyede for his “outstanding leadership, mentorship, and unwavering support” to the Nigerian Army.
He praised his predecessor’s achievements in equipment procurement, infrastructural development, and the “Soldier First” initiative, which prioritised troop welfare and operational readiness.
Shaibu pledged to sustain the legacies of exemplary leadership, enhance inter-agency synergy, and ensure swift responses to emerging security threats.
“I salute the courage, passion, resilience and discipline of our troops in the field. Their sacrifices remain the cornerstone of our collective success,” he said.
He also expressed deep gratitude to President Tinubu for the confidence reposed in him, promising to uphold professionalism and strengthen morale within the ranks.
The ceremony featured the signing of official handover notes, inspection of the quarter guard, and group photographs with senior Army officers and field commanders.
In his valedictory remarks, General Oluyede thanked President Tinubu for his “visionary leadership” and the privilege to serve as COAS and now as CDS.
He urged officers to extend their loyalty and dedication to the new Army Chief, adding that “the mission remains the same — to ensure the security of lives and defend the territorial integrity of our nation.”
Major General Abdulsalami Ibrahim, former Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), described Oluyede as “a selfless and visionary leader whose contributions will be remembered by posterity.”
As the Nigerian Army turns a new page under Shaibu’s command, many observers wonder — will his leadership usher in a stronger, more united military force capable of confronting Nigeria’s complex security challenges?
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