The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Thursday, paid a courtesy visit to the Oba of Lagos, His Royal Majesty Oba Rilwan Akiolu I, at the Lagos palace, seeking traditional support for ongoing military operations.
In a statement signed by Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, the visit aimed to appreciate the monarch’s long-standing backing of the Nigerian Army and to seek his blessings for sustained operational success.
The statement reads partly:“During the visit, the COAS expressed profound appreciation to the revered monarch and the council of Obas for their consistent support to the Nigerian Army. He noted that the purpose of his visit was not only to extend his gratitude but also to seek the blessings of the royal father, stressing that Nigeria’s customs and traditions remain sacrosanct and must always be honoured.
“General Shaibu lauded Oba Akiolu for the fatherly role he has continually played in supporting Army formations and institutions across Lagos State. He described the Oba’s guidance and goodwill as invaluable to the Army’s operational and civil–military cooperation efforts.
“In his response, the Oba of Lagos commended the Nigerian Army for its unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation and maintaining peace. He described the Army as a critical pillar upon which the Nigerian State stands, adding that the sacrifices and professionalism of its personnel have contributed significantly to national stability.
“Oba Akiolu also applauded the COAS for his steadfast leadership and dedication to ensuring a peaceful and secure country. He thereafter offered special prayers for sustained peace in Nigeria and for Lieutenant General Shaibu’s successful tenure as the 25th Chief of Army Staff.”
The visit highlighted the strategic importance of fostering strong relationships between the military and traditional institutions in Nigeria. Security experts say such partnerships enhance community trust, improve intelligence sharing, and strengthen civil-military cooperation across Lagos and beyond.
Speaking further, General Shaibu emphasised that the Nigerian Army remains committed to respecting local customs and engaging with communities as part of a holistic approach to security. His visit reflects the Army’s broader strategy to incorporate traditional authorities as key stakeholders in national stability efforts.
The Oba of Lagos reiterated his support for the military and called for continuous collaboration between the Nigerian Army and traditional institutions to ensure peace and order in Lagos and across the country.
