Ebonyi Honours COAS With Traditional Title, Strengthens Security Partnership
By Anne Osemekeh, Abuja
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has been conferred with the traditional title of “Omu Udo I of Ebonyi” by the Ebonyi State Council of Chiefs in recognition of his leadership and contributions to peace, security and national development.
The honour was bestowed on Wednesday during the Passing Out Parade of the 90 Regular Recruit Intake at Depot Nigerian Army, Amasiri-Edda, highlighting the growing partnership between the Nigerian Army, traditional institutions and the Ebonyi State Government in advancing national security through a whole-of-society approach.
The ceremony attracted senior government officials, traditional rulers and military officers, underscoring the importance of civil-military cooperation in promoting peace, strengthening community engagement and enhancing collective responsibility for security.
Presenting the title, Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru described the COAS as “a proud son of the soil,” saying the honour reflects the appreciation of the people of Ebonyi State for his outstanding service and commitment to the security and development of the state.
The governor also described the establishment of Depot Nigerian Army, Amasiri-Edda, as a landmark achievement under Lieutenant General Shaibu’s leadership, noting that the institution has strengthened security, stimulated socio-economic development and expanded the state’s contribution to national defence through manpower development.
Governor Nwifuru reaffirmed Ebonyi State’s commitment to sustaining its partnership with the Nigerian Army and other stakeholders, stressing that closer collaboration remains critical to building a peaceful, secure and prosperous nation. He added that the people of the state remain grateful for the COAS’s enduring legacy of service, peace and development.
