Meet the New Chief of Army Staff — Major General Waidi Shaibu

By Morris Nor// Major General Waidi Shaibu is a distinguished Nigerian Army officer renowned for his leadership, discipline, and operational excellence. Until recently, he served as the Theatre Commander of Operation HADIN KAI, where he led decisive counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations in Nigeria’s northeast.

During his tenure, his command achieved remarkable success:

✓ Neutralized over 567 terrorists

✓Recovered 492 weapons and 10,714 rounds of ammunition

✓Rescued more than 2,225 civilians from terrorist enclaves

✓Disrupted terrorist command and communication networks

Following his command, Major General Shaibu was redeployed to the Defence Space Agency in Abuja in April 2025 — a move that highlights his strategic and technical competence.

Career Highlights

Theatre Commander, Operation HADIN KAI – Led joint military operations against insurgent groups in the northeast.

General Officer Commanding (GOC), 7 Division – Oversaw tactical operations and coordinated Sector 1 activities.

Deputy Commandant & Director of Studies, National Defence College, Abuja – Contributed to training and strategic defence education.

Commendations & Engagements

Operation ADINKRA Medal – Awarded for exceptional leadership in theatre operations.

Inter-Agency Cooperation – Strengthened synergy with sister security agencies like the Nigeria Immigration Service to enhance national security.

Community Partnership – Engaged traditional rulers, including the Shehu of Borno, fostering collaboration for peace and stability.

Training Initiatives – Declared open the Counter-Terrorism Practitioner Course, emphasizing continuous capacity building within the forces.

Major General Waidi Shaibu’s appointment as Chief of Army Staff marks a new era of professionalism, innovation, and renewed commitment to national security.