The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has paid a courtesy visit to the Oba of Lagos, His Royal Majesty Oba Rilwan Babatunde Osuolale Aremu Akiolu I, at the Iga Iduganran Palace, reaffirming the Nigerian Army’s respect for traditional institutions and seeking continued royal support for military operations.
The visit took place on Thursday, December 11, 2025, during which the Army Chief expressed profound appreciation to the monarch and the Lagos Council of Obas for their enduring support for the Nigerian Army.
Lt-Gen Shaibu said the visit was aimed at personally thanking the Oba for his consistent goodwill toward the military, seeking his blessings, and strengthening collaboration between the Army and traditional authorities. He stressed that respect for Nigeria’s cultural heritage and traditional leadership remains vital to effective civil-military relations.
The COAS particularly commended Oba Akiolu for his fatherly guidance and encouragement to Army units, formations, and institutions across Lagos State, describing such traditional backing as invaluable to operational success and community trust.
In his response, Oba Rilwan Akiolu praised the Nigerian Army for its sacrifices, professionalism, and commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity and internal security. He described the Army as “the strongest pillar upholding the Nigerian State” and lauded Lt-Gen Shaibu’s leadership since his appointment as the 25th indigenous Chief of Army Staff.
The monarch offered special prayers for peace and stability across the country, divine protection for soldiers deployed in various operational theatres, and a successful tenure for the Army Chief.
The visit further reinforced the long-standing cordial relationship between the Nigerian Army and the Lagos traditional institution, underscoring the role of traditional leadership in promoting national security and unity.
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