The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Thursday, 11 December 2025, paid a courtesy visit to the Oba of Lagos, His Royal Majesty Oba Rilwan Akiolu I, at his palace.
General Shaibu expressed deep appreciation to the Lagos monarch and the council of Obas for their sustained support to the Nigerian Army. He said his visit was both to convey gratitude and to seek the royal father’s blessings, emphasising that Nigeria’s customs and traditions remain sacred and must always be honoured.
The COAS praised Oba Akiolu’s consistent fatherly guidance, describing his support to Army formations and institutions in Lagos State as invaluable to strengthening operational effectiveness and civil–military relations.
Responding, the Oba of Lagos lauded the Nigerian Army’s unwavering dedication to protecting the country and maintaining peace. He described the Army as a key pillar of national stability, commending the professionalism and sacrifices of its personnel.
Oba Akiolu further applauded General Shaibu’s leadership and commitment to fostering a safer nation. He offered special prayers for sustained peace across Nigeria and for the continued success of the COAS in his tenure as the 25th Chief of Army Staff.
The visit highlights the Army’s ongoing efforts to deepen collaboration with traditional institutions as essential partners in promoting peace and security nationwide.
