By By: Staff Writer
Monrovia — The Chief of Army Staff of the Nigerian Army, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s enduring military partnership with Liberia while warning of growing threats posed by drug trafficking, cybercrime, and maritime insecurity across West Africa.
Delivering the keynote address as guest speaker at Liberia’s 69th Armed Forces Day celebration on February 11 in Monrovia, Lt. Gen. Shaibu described his return to Liberia as “a profound homecoming,” recalling his service in the country during the formative years of the restructured Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL).
“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. “Though my duties have taken me to other realms, I have never truly left you.”
Reflecting on AFL’s Rebirth
Lt. Gen. Shaibu, who served in Liberia between 2007 and 2012 as a military assistant during the rebuilding of the AFL, expressed pride in the force’s transformation.
Recalling the early days of restructuring, he quoted his late superior, Major General S.A. Abrahman:
“We are building an aircraft in flight.”
Today, he said, that aircraft “has been significantly built,” describing the AFL as “a highly motivated and structured force” and “a force for good.”
He acknowledged the contributions of international partners — including the United States, United Kingdom, Sierra Leone, Ghana, Benin, and Nigeria — whose collective support, he noted, was instrumental to Liberia’s recovery, reconciliation, and long-term stability.
“The Armed Forces of Liberia stands as a shining example of what international collaboration and regional cooperation can achieve,” he stated.
‘No Single Agency Can Counter Security Threats Alone’
Addressing this year’s theme — “Securing Liberia Together: Strengthening Interagency Cooperation Against Drug Trafficking and Emerging Security Threats” — the Nigerian Army Chief stressed that modern security challenges are increasingly transnational and complex.
“No single agency, no matter how well equipped, can counter security threats alone,” he warned.
He described drug trafficking as no longer just a law enforcement issue but a full-fledged national and regional security threat.
“Drug trafficking has evolved beyond a law enforcement concern to become a significant national and regional security threat,” he said.
“The devastating impact of synthetic drugs poses a grave danger to our youths, undermines social cohesion, weakens economies, and fuels organized crime and violent extremism.”
He called for “robust interagency cooperation, shared intelligence, effective coordination, and strong legal frameworks capable of dismantling trafficking networks at all levels.”
Maritime and Cyber Threats Loom
Lt. Gen. Shaibu also raised concerns about maritime insecurity in the Gulf of Guinea, noting that piracy and illegal, unreported fishing continue to threaten coastal nations.
“Maritime security remains a concern as the Gulf of Guinea continues to face challenges ranging from piracy to unregulated fishing,” he said. “As a littoral state, Liberia is not isolated from these threats.”
He emphasized that securing Liberia requires “forward-looking strategies, technological innovations, regional cooperation, and timely intelligence sharing.”
In addition, he warned about the alarming growth of cybercrime and attacks targeting critical infrastructure and financial systems across Africa.
Nigeria–Liberia Ties ‘Forged in Sacrifice’
Reaffirming Nigeria’s historic commitment to Liberia’s peace and stability, particularly during the ECOWAS peacekeeping years, Lt. Gen. Shaibu described the bilateral relationship as deeply rooted in shared sacrifice.
“We stood together during the most challenging times, and today we stand together in celebration and collaboration,” he declared. “The bond is unbreakable.”
He noted that Nigeria remains committed under President Ahmed Bola Tinubu to supporting Liberia through capacity building, regional security initiatives, and efforts toward a secure and drug-free environment.
Tribute to Fallen Heroes
Marking February 11 as a solemn day of remembrance, Lt. Gen. Shaibu honored generations of Liberian soldiers who defended the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
“You are indeed the guardians of peace. Your professionalism, discipline, and loyalty are the bedrocks of Liberia’s democracy,” he told AFL officers and soldiers.
“Wear your uniforms with pride — and with the humility that comes from serving a cause greater than oneself.”
The 69th Armed Forces Day celebration brought together senior government officials, military leaders, diplomats, and regional partners in a renewed call for unity, cooperation, and collective security across West Africa.
“Long live the Republic of Liberia. Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Long live the bond of friendship between our two nations,” Lt. Gen. Shaibu concluded to applause.
