The Nigerian Army has officially released a newly approved portrait of the 25th Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, directing journalists, media organizations, and the public to immediately update their records to reflect the change.
In a statement shared via its verified X (formerly Twitter) account on Tuesday, the Army emphasized the need for uniformity across media platforms, urging that outdated photographs showing the Army Chief with a lower rank be discontinued.
“You are kindly requested to update your media archives accordingly and refrain from using previous photographs, particularly those depicting the Chief of Army Staff with the rank of Major General,” the statement read in part.
The military further clarified that any earlier versions of Shaibu’s official portrait have been withdrawn and should no longer be circulated.
Acknowledging the media’s contribution to national development and security, the Army commended journalists for their “professionalism, commitment, and responsible reporting,” describing the press as an indispensable partner in shaping public understanding of military operations.
The newly released image now serves as the sole official portrait for all publications, reports, and documentation referencing the office of the Chief of Army Staff.
Senate Confirmed Shaibu’s Appointment in October
Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu was confirmed by the Senate on October 29 as Nigeria’s new Chief of Army Staff, following his nomination by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The confirmation took place under tight security at the National Assembly Complex, Abuja, less than an hour after the upper chamber also cleared General Olufemi Oluyede as Chief of Defence Staff.
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Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who presided over the screening, described the exercise as a vital constitutional duty, assuring Nigerians that only the most competent and patriotic officers were being appointed to lead the Armed Forces.
During deliberations, Senator Isah Jubrin (Kogi East) praised Shaibu’s character and long-standing record of professionalism, saying:
“I have known him for over 30 years. He is humble, disciplined, and dedicated. I’m confident he has what it takes to lead the Nigerian Army effectively.”
Following his confirmation, Shaibu was directed to “take a bow” and assume office immediately — a move seen as part of President Tinubu’s broader effort to strengthen Nigeria’s defence architecture.
By order of the Nigerian Army, all media houses and public institutions are now expected to adopt the newly approved portrait of Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu as the definitive image representing the Chief of Army Staff.
