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COAS Arrives Liberia for Armed Forces Day, Strengthens Defence Diplomacy

By Chimezie Godfrey

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‎The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has arrived in Liberia to participate in the country’s 69th Armed Forces Day Celebration.

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‎The visit followed an invitation from the Armed Forces of Liberia, with the event scheduled for Tuesday, February 11, 2026.

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‎On arrival, Shaibu was received by the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of Liberia, Major General Davidson Forley.

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‎He also inspected a Guard of Honour mounted by the Liberian military as a mark of respect and cooperation between both countries.

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‎The Nigerian Army said the gesture symbolised the enduring professional ties and mutual respect between the two armed forces.

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‎The COAS also visited the Nigerian Embassy in Liberia, where he was received by the Chargé d’Affaires, Ambassador Rahmat Muhammad.

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‎During the visit, he praised embassy officials for strengthening Nigeria-Liberia relations and protecting Nigerian interests.

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‎In a statement signed by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Col. Appolonia Anele, the Army said the visit reflects Nigeria’s commitment to defence diplomacy and regional security.

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‎> “The visit underscores Nigeria’s sustained commitment to defence diplomacy, bilateral military cooperation and regional security collaboration,” the statement said.

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‎It added that Shaibu’s participation demonstrates Nigeria’s resolve to build strategic partnerships with African militaries.

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‎The Army said the COAS would attend the celebration, where Liberia will mark its military heritage and achievements.

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‎The statement also noted that Shaibu once served as Military Assistant to a former Chief of Army Staff of the Armed Forces of Liberia.

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‎It added that he holds the Distinguished Service Order, one of Liberia’s highest military honours, in recognition of his contributions to the country’s defence sector.

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