President Bola Tinubu’s recent reshuffle of Nigeria’s top military leadership on Friday, October 24, 2025, has led to the appointment of Major General Waidi Shaibu as the new Chief of Army Staff (COAS).
Until his appointment, Maj. Gen. Shaibu served as the Theatre Commander of the Joint Task Force, Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), where he led counterinsurgency operations in Nigeria’s Northeast.
Born on December 18, 1971, in Olamaboro Local Government Area of Kogi State, Shaibu began his military career in 1989 when he joined the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) as part of the 41st Regular Course. He was commissioned into the Armour Corps in 1994.
Academic and Professional Background
Shaibu holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Nigerian Defence Academy. His academic journey reflects a deep commitment to professional and intellectual development, with multiple postgraduate degrees to his name — including a Master’s in Public Administration from the University of Calabar, a Master’s in Strategic Studies from the University of Ibadan, and another in Security and Strategic Studies from the National Defence University, Washington D.C.
He is an alumnus of the Harvard Kennedy School of Government and is currently pursuing a PhD in Strategic Studies at the University of Ibadan.
Maj. Gen. Shaibu has undergone extensive military training in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, and the United States, specializing in armoured warfare, defence management, and counterterrorism strategy.
Military Career and Command Experience
Over his three-decade career, Shaibu has served in several major military operations, including Operations Harmony, Boyona, Zaman Lafiya, Lafiya Dole, Tura Takaibango, and Hadin Kai. He also represented Nigeria in international peacekeeping missions in Liberia and Sudan.
His leadership record includes holding key positions such as General Officer Commanding 7 Division, Commander of 21 Special Armoured Brigade, Chief Instructor at the Nigerian Army Armour School, and Director of Defence Administration at the Defence Headquarters.
In recognition of his service and dedication, Shaibu has received multiple honours, including the Distinguished Service Star, Distinguished Service Order, Field Command Medal, and the Purple Heart Medal.
Leadership and Personal Life
Maj. Gen. Waidi Shaibu is widely regarded for his calm leadership style, disciplined approach, and strategic thinking. As he assumes the role of Chief of Army Staff, expectations are high that his operational experience and intellectual background will help strengthen Nigeria’s military effectiveness and internal security.
Beyond the barracks, Shaibu is known to enjoy reading, early morning walks, and quiet reflection. He is married with children.
