Odita Sunday 
By Odita Sunday
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Nigerian Army, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has arrived in the Republic of Liberia on an official engagement at the invitation of the Armed Forces of Liberia to grace the country’s 69th Armed Forces Day Celebration scheduled for Wednesday, February 11, 2026.
Lieutenant General Shaibu was, on arrival, warmly received by the Chief of Staff, Armed Forces of Liberia, Major General Davidson Forley.
In a mark of honour and mutual military respect, the COAS inspected a Guard of Honour mounted by the Armed Forces of Liberia, symbolising the enduring professional ties and cooperation between the two sister armed forces.
The gesture, according to the Nigerian Army, reflects the high esteem Liberia has for the Nigerian Army and its leadership.
The COAS also visited the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in Liberia, where he was received by the Chargé d’Affaires, Ambassador Rahmat Muhammad.
During the visit, Lieutenant General Shaibu interacted with embassy officials and commended their efforts in strengthening Nigeria-Liberia bilateral relations and safeguarding Nigerian interests in the host nation.
In a statement signed by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Col. Appolonia Anele, the visit was described as a reflection of Nigeria’s commitment to defence diplomacy and regional security.
“The visit underscores Nigeria’s sustained commitment to defence diplomacy, the deepening of bilateral military cooperation and the reinforcement of regional security collaboration within the West African sub-region,” Anele said.
She added that the COAS’s participation in the celebration reflects Nigeria’s resolve to promote professional solidarity and strategic partnerships among African militaries.
Lieutenant General Shaibu is expected to attend the 69th Armed Forces Day Celebration, where Liberia will commemorate its military heritage, operational achievements and contributions to national development.
The statement also noted that the COAS previously served as Military Assistant to a former Chief of Army Staff of the Armed Forces of Liberia.
According to Anele, he is a recipient of the Distinguished Service Order, one of Liberia’s highest military honours, awarded for his exceptional contributions to the country’s defence sector.
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