The Nigerian Army on Wednesday witnessed a smooth change of command as Major General Waidi Shaibu officially assumed duty as the 25th Chief of Army Staff (COAS), succeeding Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, who has now taken over as the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS).
The brief but colourful handing and taking over ceremony held at the Army Headquarters, Abuja, marked yet another milestone in the Army’s tradition of orderly leadership succession.
In his address, the new COAS, Major General Shaibu, paid glowing tribute to his predecessor, Lieutenant General Oluyede, for his remarkable service, visionary leadership, and immense contributions to the transformation of the Nigerian Army—particularly in the areas of equipment modernization, infrastructure development, and troop welfare under the “Soldier First” initiative.
He pledged to sustain and build upon these achievements while strengthening collaboration with other security agencies to enhance 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,” General Shaibu stated.
He assured that his administration would focus on operational efficiency, troop morale, and welfare, while continuously adapting to the nation’s dynamic security landscape.
The new Army Chief also expressed deep appreciation to the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for the confidence reposed in him. He led senior officers in observing a minute silence in honour of fallen heroes.
In his valedictory remarks, the outgoing COAS and new CDS, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, thanked President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve and commended the officers and men of the Nigerian Army for their loyalty, professionalism, and dedication.
“The mission remains the same — to safeguard our nation and defend its territorial integrity,” he emphasized, urging continued unity and discipline under the new leadership.
Also speaking, the immediate past Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Major General Abdulsalami Ibrahim, described General Oluyede as a visionary and selfless leader whose legacy of professionalism and service would continue to inspire generations of officers.
Highlights of the ceremony included the signing of the handing and taking over notes, decoration of the new COAS, inspection of the quarter guard, and group photographs with principal staff officers and field commanders.
