RismadarVoice Reporters
October 19, 2026
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has commenced an official working visit to Rwanda aimed at strengthening bilateral military relations, enhancing operational cooperation and developing joint approaches to security challenges across Africa.
Shaibu arrived in Kigali on Sunday, October 18, for the visit scheduled to conclude on October 23, 2026, following an invitation from the Rwanda Defence Force’s Army Chief of Staff, Major General Vincent Nyakarundi.
He was received on arrival by Nyakarundi and Nigeria’s Acting High Commissioner to Rwanda, Ambassador Ibrahim Zanna.
According to the Nigerian Army, the engagement provides an opportunity for both countries to exchange operational experiences, deepen defence collaboration and explore practical strategies for combating terrorism and emerging security threats.
The discussions are expected to address professional military exchanges, capacity development, operational effectiveness and regional stability.
The visit forms part of efforts to strengthen cooperation between African military institutions and promote coordinated responses to security challenges affecting the continent.
As part of his engagements on Monday, Shaibu visited the Kigali Genocide Memorial, where he reflected on the consequences of ethnic hatred, intolerance and violent extremism.
The memorial commemorates victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and highlights the importance of reconciliation, national unity and preventing mass atrocities.
The Army Chief also visited Rwanda’s Campaign Against Genocide Museum, which documents military operations that contributed to ending the genocide.
According to a statement attributed to the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the visits reinforced the importance of protecting civilians, respecting human rights and maintaining national cohesion.
The Nigerian Army emphasised the need for citizens to reject divisive rhetoric and support peaceful coexistence, while security institutions remain committed to protecting lives and maintaining stability.
Nigeria and Rwanda have maintained military relations involving professional training and exchanges, with the latest engagement expected to identify additional opportunities for cooperation.
The working visit also aligns with the Nigerian Army’s transformation agenda, which prioritises operational readiness, professional development and stronger international military partnerships.
Further details of the bilateral engagements and any agreements reached are expected as the visit progresses.
