- Army Chief visits Sultan of Sokoto after US air strikes in Nigeria
- Meeting focused on security, peace, and civil–military cooperation
- Sultan praises Nigerian Army’s sacrifices and prays for success
- Visit comes amid debate over US air strikes in Sokoto communities
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has visited the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, days after US air strikes in Nigeria sparked nationwide debate over security operations in Sokoto State.
Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), paid a courtesy visit to the Sultan of Sokoto on Friday, December 26, 2025, at the Sultan’s Palace in Sokoto State.
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According to information shared by the Nigerian Army, the visit was aimed at strengthening civil–military relations and deepening cooperation with traditional rulers to promote peace, unity, and security across Nigeria.
During the meeting, General Shaibu reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to working closely with community and religious leaders to ensure stability and peaceful coexistence, especially in areas affected by insecurity.
“The Nigerian Army remains fully committed to partnering with traditional institutions to sustain peace and protect lives and property across the country,” the Army Chief said.
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In response, the Sultan of Sokoto commended the Nigerian Army for its sacrifices in defending the nation and prayed for continued success in the discharge of its constitutional duties.
The visit came less than 24 hours after the United States carried out air strikes on suspected ISIS hideouts in parts of Sokoto State. The operation, which was confirmed by Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters, was conducted in collaboration with the US Africa Command (AFRICOM).
According to the Director of Defence Information, Samaila Uba, the air strikes were carefully planned.
“The operation was deliberately calibrated to neutralise specific targets while minimising collateral damage,” he said.
However, the strikes have generated mixed reactions, with some residents and commentators questioning reports of impact locations. The Federal Ministry of Information later clarified that the intended target was Buani Forest in Tangaza Local Government Area, while debris reportedly fell in nearby communities, causing confusion.
