Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, and his predecessor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, have applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing Major General Waidi Shaibu as Nigeria’s new Chief of Army Staff.

In separate statements, the two leaders described the decision of President Tinubu as merit-driven and a patriotic choice that reflects the President’s commitment to rewarding excellence in national service.

Governor Ododo said the appointment of the new Chief of Army Staff comes with pride for the people of Kogi state, noting that Major General Shaibu’s track record of professionalism, discipline, and integrity made him a fitting choice to lead the Nigerian Army at this point in Nigeria’s history.

He said the development reaffirms the President’s record of fairness and recognition of merit in his leadership.

Former Governor Bello, in a congratulatory message. also commended President Tinubu for what he called a “well-deserved elevation.”

He said appointment Major General Shaibu as the Chief of Army Staff would further strengthen security operations in Kogi State and across the North Central region and Nigeria, adding that it will be a boost for the relentless efforts by Governor Ododo to sustain onslaught against insecurity and to maintain peace in the state.

Bello praised the new Army Chief as a courageous and competent officer who understands Nigeria’s security landscape and
urged him to work closely with state governments and other stakeholders to consolidate the gains already made in the fight against insurgency, banditry, and other security challenges in the country.