The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has arrived in Rwanda for a high-level working visit aimed at bolstering bilateral military cooperation and advancing collective responses to security threats across the African continent.
The strategic engagement, scheduled to run from October 18 to 23, 2026, highlights a shared commitment between West and East African military leadership to address modern security challenges through united efforts.
The visit is taking place at the official invitation of the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) Army Chief of Staff, Major General Vincent Nyakarundi.
Upon touching down in Kigali, Lieutenant General Shaibu was warmly received by Major General Nyakarundi, alongside Nigeria’s Acting High Commissioner to Rwanda, Ambassador Ibrahim Zanna.
According to an official statement released by the Nigerian Army via X on Sunday, the diplomatic and strategic engagement provides a timely platform for both armed forces to share critical operational experiences.
The meetings are designed to deepen defense collaboration and explore innovative, joint approaches to counterterrorism, tackle emerging security challenges, and reinforce regional stability.
Military officials noted that the high-profile visit underscores Lieutenant General Shaibu’s firm dedication to strengthening African military partnerships.
Furthermore, the dialogue aims to foster mutual capacity development and promote collective security, aligning closely with the Nigerian Army’s ongoing transformation agenda.
Discussions throughout the week are expected to center on professional military exchanges and practical frameworks for the two forces to cooperate against common continental threats.
Further details regarding specific bilateral agreements and engagements are anticipated as the schedule unfolds over the coming days.
