The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has arrived in the Republic of Liberia on an official visit for the country’s 69th Armed Forces Day celebration.

In a statement on Tuesday, army spokesperson Col. Appolonia Anele said the COAS arrived at the invitation of the Armed Forces of Liberia, with the event scheduled for Wednesday, February 11, in Monrovia.

She said Mr Shaibu was received at the airport by the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of Liberia, Maj. Gen. Davidson Forley, in a ceremony marked by military honours.

“He inspected a guard of honour mounted by the Armed Forces of Liberia, a gesture symbolising the strong professional ties, mutual respect, and enduring defence cooperation between Nigeria and Liberia.

“The Nigerian Army chief later visited the Embassy of Nigeria in Liberia, where he was received by the Chargé d’Affaires, Ambassador Rahmat Muhammad.

“During the visit, Shaibu interacted with embassy officials, commending their efforts in strengthening Nigeria–Liberia bilateral relations and providing support for Nigerians living and working in Liberia,” she said.

Ms Anele said the visit was aimed at deepening defence diplomacy, enhancing bilateral military cooperation, and reinforcing regional security collaboration within West Africa.

According to her, Mr Shaibu is expected to participate in activities marking Liberia’s 69th Armed Forces Day, highlighting military traditions, operational achievements, and the armed forces’ role in national development.

“The Armed Forces Day Celebration also provides a platform for strategic engagements among regional military leaders on peacekeeping, stability, and collective security in the sub-region,” she added.

(NAN)