Nigeria Army Chief Strengthens Military Ties With Rwanda

Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, Nigeria's Chief of Army Staff, conducted an official working visit to Rwanda from October 18 to 23, 2026, to strengthen bilateral military cooperation. During the visit, Shaibu met with Rwanda Defence Force Chief of Defence Staff General Mubarakh Muganga and Army Chief of Staff Major General Vincent Nyakarundi to discuss the implementation of existing memoranda of understanding.

These agreements focus on the exchange of logisticians and directing staff, as well as joint training initiatives. While visiting the Rwanda Military Academy in Gako, Shaibu advocated for modern training and cadet exchange programs to combat terrorism and violent extremism, noting that the academy should prepare for the arrival of the first batch of Nigerian officer cadets.

As part of the diplomatic mission, the Nigerian delegation visited the Campaign Against Genocide Museum and the Kigali Genocide Memorial. Shaibu urged for national unity and religious tolerance, stating that Rwanda's history of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi provides critical lessons on the dangers of ethnic hatred and divisive rhetoric. The Nigerian Army emphasized that these lessons are particularly relevant to ensuring peace and stability amid current security challenges in Nigeria.