The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, on Thursday paid a courtesy visit to the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, seeking royal blessings and traditional support for ongoing military operations across the country.
The visit was disclosed in a statement issued in Abuja by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Col. Appolonia Anele.
According to the COAS, the visit was aimed at appreciating the monarch and the council of Obas for their continued support to the Nigerian Army. He emphasized that Nigeria’s customs and traditions play a vital role in strengthening national cohesion and enhancing military–civil relations.
Lt.-Gen. Shaibu commended Oba Akiolu for his fatherly counsel to army formations within Lagos, noting that the monarch’s consistent support had contributed significantly to operational effectiveness and improved cooperation between the military and civilians.
In his remarks, the Oba of Lagos applauded the army for its sacrifices and efforts in stabilising the country. He reaffirmed that the military remains a critical pillar of Nigeria’s security framework.
Oba Akiolu also praised the COAS for his leadership and dedication to peace, offering prayers for a successful tenure as the 25th Chief of Army Staff and for lasting peace across the nation.