Ododo, Igala Youths, OYPDF Hail Tinubu For Appointing Shaibu New COAS

By Salifu Usman, Abuja and Ibrahim Obansa, Lokoja

The Kogi State government, Igala Youths Council and the Oganenigu Youth for Peace and Development Foundation (OYPDF) have expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Tinubu over the appointment of Major General Waidi Shaibu, an indigene of Kogi State as the new Chief of Army Staff (COAS).

In a statement by the Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, described the appointment as a clear demonstration of the president’s commitment to fairness, equity and recognition of merit in national service.

Governor Ododo noted that the elevation of Major General Shaibu is a source of pride and inspiration to the people of Kogi State, stressing that the appointee’s record of professionalism, discipline, and dedication to duty stands him out as a fine officer and true patriot.

The governor expressed confidence in the ability of the new COAS to deliver on the mandate of strengthening the Nigerian Army to defend the nation and sustain ongoing efforts to improve security across the country.

While congratulating Major General Shaibu on his well-deserved appointment, Governor Ododo assured the president of the unflinching support and loyalty of the government and people of Kogi State to his administration.

He also prayed for divine wisdom and protection for the new Army Chief as he discharges his duties in the service of the nation.

On their part, the OYPDF expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for recognising the Kogi-born General’s suitability for this important national role.

In a statement by its chairman, Dr Onu Apeh, the group expressed “absolute confidence in Major General Shaibu’s ability to excel in his new position, as he has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership and professionalism throughout his previous assignments.”

He described the new COAS as “a gallant officer of proven integrity, discipline, and significant accomplishments during his distinguished military career.”

The group urged General Shaibu to leverage his wealth of experience and expertise in line with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in strengthening national security and ensuring that every citizen can “sleep with both eyes closed.”

In another statement, the national president of the Igala Youths Council, Engr Onogu Collins Monday, described the appointment as a recognition of Shaibu’s outstanding leadership qualities, professionalism and dedication to national service.

According to him, the new Army Chief has distinguished himself through years of meritorious service in various military formations across the country.

He noted that Shaibu’s tenure as Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai was marked by remarkable successes, including the neutralisation of over 567 terrorists, recovery of large quantities of arms, and the surrender of more than 121,000 insurgents and their families.

“His emphasis on tactical intelligence, joint-force coordination, and community engagement has redefined Nigeria’s counter-terrorism approach,” Onogu said.

He expressed confidence that Major General Shaibu’s wealth of experience and strategic thinking would help address the complex security challenges confronting the nation.

The council also commended President Tinubu for what it called a “bold and strategic decision,” adding that the appointment would strengthen the Nigerian Army and enhance national security.