The Nigerian Senate has confirmed Major General Waheedi Shaibu as the new Chief of Army Staff, directing him to assume office immediately. The confirmation came barely an hour after the Senate cleared General Olufemi Oluyede as Chief of Defence Staff.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio described the confirmation process as a constitutional duty aimed at ensuring that only capable and patriotic officers are entrusted with leading the nation’s security agencies. Akpabio noted that the Senate would hold a closed-door session with the nominees to further assess their suitability for the roles.
During the session, Senator Isah Jubrin expressed confidence in Shaibu’s ability to deliver, citing his humility and dedication to his work. Jubrin, who has known Shaibu for three decades, described him as an asset to the army.
The confirmation of Shaibu and other service chiefs follows President Bola Tinubu’s letter to the Senate, seeking their screening and confirmation. The President’s letter was read by Akpabio, who subsequently referred it to the committee of the whole for screening and confirmation.
The new service chiefs include General Olufemi Oluyede as Chief of Defence Staff, Major General Waheedi Shaibu as Chief of Army Staff, Rear Admiral Idi Abbas as Chief of Naval Staff, and Air Vice Marshal Kennedy Aneke as Chief of Air Staff.
Citizens have taken to social media to congratulate the new Chief of Army Staff, praising his academic and military background. Many have expressed hope that he will bring stability and security to the country.
Shaibu’s appointment has been met with optimism, given his experience and reputation as a battle-tested soldier. His confirmation marks a new chapter in the nation’s military leadership, and it remains to be seen how he will lead the army in addressing the country’s security challenges.
“Congratulations to them all, the COAS is a fighter in the North East. I just pray that the Nigerian factor will not spoil his reputation”. Mark
Another man identified as Azure also took to his social media handle to comment his knowledge of the new COAS.
“He is noted to have been the most academically brilliant in his set at the Nigerians Defence Academy – NDA. He came tops in his class clinching the revered prize.
He was injured twice in the theater of War and had to be evacuated showing his gallantry as a battle tested Soilder that has faced death and the enemy.
He looks very Physically Alert and with his sound academic and battle tested background in Counter-Terrorism he is a proper fit.
God be with him. That is the most strategic Military Appointment as any attempted Coup will never succeed withouth the buy-in of the COAS.
Well deserved”.
