Army Chief Visits Sultan of Sokoto, Reaffirms Commitment to Security After US Airstrikes

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, on Friday paid a courtesy visit to the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, at his palace in Sokoto State, reaffirming the Nigerian Army’s commitment to peace, security and collaboration with traditional institutions.

The visit, which was confirmed by the Nigerian Army through its verified X (formerly Twitter) handle on Saturday, was aimed at strengthening civil–military relations and fostering cooperation with community leaders in the region.

During the visit, Lt.-Gen. Shaibu assured the Sultan that the Nigerian Army would continue to work closely with traditional rulers and other stakeholders to promote stability, peaceful coexistence and national unity across the country.

He emphasised the importance of community engagement in addressing security challenges, noting that sustainable peace can only be achieved through collaboration between security agencies and local leaders.

In his response, the Sultan of Sokoto commended officers and men of the Nigerian Army for their sacrifices and dedication to the protection of lives and property, urging them to remain steadfast in the discharge of their duties.

The visit came less than 48 hours after the United States launched airstrikes against Islamic State (ISIS) targets in parts of Sokoto State, an operation that has continued to generate reactions across the country.

Observers say the Army chief’s engagement with the Sultan underscores the military’s resolve to reassure communities and reinforce confidence in ongoing security efforts.