Major General Waidi Shaibu, a highly decorated and strategic officer of the Nigerian Army, has emerged as one of the country’s most distinguished military leaders following his appointment as the new Chief of Army Staff.
Before his recent elevation, General Shaibu served as the Theatre Commander of Operation HADIN KAI, where he led decisive counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations in Nigeria’s Northeast. Under his command, the military recorded remarkable achievements, including the neutralisation of over 567 terrorists, recovery of 492 weapons and 10,714 rounds of ammunition, as well as the rescue of more than 2,225 civilians from terrorist enclaves.
His leadership also disrupted terrorist command and communication networks, significantly weakening the operational capabilities of insurgent groups in the region.
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In April 2025, following his successful tenure in the Northeast, General Shaibu was redeployed to the Defence Space Agency in Abuja — a posting that underscored his strategic insight and technical expertise in modern defence systems.
Throughout his career, General Shaibu has held several key command and academic positions, including Theatre Commander of Operation HADIN KAI, where he led joint military operations against insurgents in the Northeast; General Officer Commanding 7 Division, where he oversaw tactical operations and coordination of Sector 1 activities; and Deputy Commandant and Director of Studies at the National Defence College, Abuja, where he contributed to advanced defence education and strategic training.
His exceptional service has earned him numerous commendations, including the Operation ADINKRA Medal for outstanding leadership in theatre operations. He also strengthened inter-agency collaboration with other security outfits such as the Nigeria Immigration Service, fostering enhanced national security coordination.
General Shaibu is known for his community-focused approach to peacebuilding, having engaged traditional rulers such as the Shehu of Borno to foster grassroots cooperation for regional stability.
He has also championed continuous training within the military, including the launch of the Counter-Terrorism Practitioner Course, aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and professionalism among troops.
With his appointment as Chief of Army Staff, Major General Waidi Shaibu is expected to bring renewed discipline, innovation, and commitment to the Nigerian Army’s mission of protecting national sovereignty and ensuring peace across the country.