The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has arrived in the Republic of Liberia on an official engagement to participate in the country’s 69th Armed Forces Day Celebration scheduled for February 11.
According to a statement by Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Shaibu was invited by the Armed Forces of Liberia as part of ongoing defence and military cooperation. On arrival, he was warmly received by Liberia’s Chief of Staff, Major General Davidson Forley, and inspected a Guard of Honour mounted by the Armed Forces of Liberia.
The Nigerian Army noted that the ceremonial reception underscored the enduring professional relationship between both armed forces and reflected the high esteem in which Liberia holds Nigeria’s military.
As part of his engagements, Shaibu visited the Nigerian Embassy in Liberia, where he was received by Chargé d’Affaires, Ambassador Rahmat Muhammad. He commended embassy officials for their role in strengthening Nigeria–Liberia bilateral relations and safeguarding Nigerian interests in the host country.
The visit reaffirms Nigeria’s commitment to defence diplomacy, bilateral military cooperation, and regional security collaboration within West Africa. Shaibu’s participation in the Armed Forces Day celebration highlights Nigeria’s resolve to promote professional solidarity and strategic partnerships with sister African militaries in addressing emerging security challenges.
He is expected to deliver an address during the celebration, which will commemorate Liberia’s military heritage, operational achievements, and the role of the Armed Forces in national development and stability.
The statement also recalled that Shaibu previously served as Military Assistant to a former Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of Liberia, and in recognition of his contributions to Liberia’s defence sector, he was awarded the Distinguished Service Order, one of the country’s highest military honours.
By Emmanuel Obisue, Abuja
