Monrovia, Liberia – The Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has praised the progress of the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) and reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to regional security and cooperation during Liberia’s 69th Armed Forces Day celebration in Monrovia.
Delivering the keynote address at the ceremony, Lt. Gen. Shaibu described his return to Liberia as both an honor and a “profound homecoming,” recalling his years of service in the country and his close ties with Liberian military leaders.
“This land has played a significant part in the journey of my service to the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the African continent,” he said, expressing nostalgia at seeing officers he mentored in 2007 now leading Liberia’s defense and security sector.
Shaibu served as military assistant to the commander in charge of the Armed Forces of Liberia from 2007 to 2012, a period he described as foundational in rebuilding the country’s military following years of conflict. He recalled the challenges faced at the time, quoting his late superior, Maj. Gen. S.A. Abdurrahman, who likened their task of “building an aircraft in flight.”
“I make bold to say that this aircraft has been significantly built,” Shaibu said, noting that the AFL is now a “highly motivated and structured force.”
The Nigerian army chief congratulated Liberia’s President and Commander-in-Chief and commended the Ministry of National Defense and the AFL for organizing what he called an auspicious occasion. He described February 11 as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices and unwavering commitment of generations of Liberian service personnel who swore to defend the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
“As we celebrate the 69th anniversary, we honor the sacrifices of the past and look forward with hope to a secure and prosperous future,” he said.
Shaibu also acknowledged the contributions of international partners, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Sierra Leone, Ghana, Benin and Nigeria, whose sustained support he said had been instrumental in Liberia’s recovery, rehabilitation and long-term stability.
“Through their collective support to peace enforcement and peace-building initiatives, these partners have significantly contributed to the restoration of Liberia’s socioeconomic and political development,” he said, describing the AFL as a shining example of what international collaboration and regional cooperation can achieve.
He reaffirmed the strong relationship between Nigeria and Liberia, emphasizing Nigeria’s continued solidarity with Liberia and its armed forces.
The 69th Armed Forces Day celebration brought together senior military officers, government officials and international partners to honor the service and sacrifices of Liberia’s men and women in uniform.
