Odita Sunday 
By Odita Sunday
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has visited the Kigali Genocide Memorial in Rwanda, highlighting the need for national unity, religious tolerance and early intervention to prevent conflicts from escalating into violence.
Shaibu visited the memorial on Monday, October 19, 2026, as part of his official working visit to Rwanda, reflecting on the devastating consequences of ethnic hatred, divisive rhetoric and violent extremism.
The memorial preserves the memory of victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, during which hundreds of thousands of people were killed. It also serves as a reminder of the dangers of unchecked hatred, political manipulation and divisions within society.
The visit draws attention to lessons relevant to Nigeria, where ethnic, religious and political differences can become sources of tension if not addressed through dialogue, responsible leadership and peaceful coexistence.
It also underscores the importance of rejecting hate speech, promoting tolerance and encouraging citizens to place national interests above divisive identities.
Beyond its historical significance, the visit highlights the role of leadership in preventing conflict before it escalates, as well as the importance of cooperation between the military and civilian communities in sustaining peace and security.
The visit reinforces the broader message that lasting national stability depends not only on security operations but also on unity, mutual understanding and a shared commitment to peaceful coexistence.
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