The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant-General Waidi Shaibu, has commended Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, for his administration’s continued support for the Nigerian Army and its security operations across the state.

Shaibu made the commendation on Friday, November 6, 2026, during a courtesy visit to the Edo State Government House in Benin City, where he met with the governor and other government officials.

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According to the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Patrick Ebojele, the Army chief was in the state to participate in several military engagements and inspect projects aimed at improving the welfare and operational efficiency of military personnel.

During the visit, Shaibu explained that senior officers recently promoted to the rank of major-general had been encouraged to contribute to the development of their respective communities in appreciation of the support they received throughout their careers.

He expressed gratitude to Okpebholo for his administration’s cooperation with the military and wished him a successful tenure.

In his response, the governor expressed pleasure at receiving the Army chief and his delegation, revealing that he had adjusted his earlier travel plans to personally welcome them to the state.

Okpebholo described Shaibu’s interest in Edo State as particularly encouraging, noting that the Army chief had demonstrated commitment to addressing security concerns in the state since assuming office.

He specifically highlighted the planned establishment of the Nigerian Army’s 83 Division in Edo, describing the development as significant and saying residents were enthusiastic about its arrival.

The governor also praised the Army chief for appointing a brigade commander whose operations, according to him, had contributed considerably to improving security across the state.

Okpebholo described the commander’s presence as a major relief to his administration, claiming that reports of kidnapping had reduced significantly since his deployment.

He recalled the security difficulties previously experienced in Ekpoma, where residents had struggled with persistent threats, but said the situation had improved, allowing people to return to their farms and carry out their daily activities.

The governor also identified Okpella as another community that had experienced security challenges, adding that the efforts of the military and other security agencies had helped restore stability.

He commended the Nigerian Army for its commitment to protecting residents and maintaining peace across Edo State.

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Okpebholo further assured Shaibu of his administration’s continued support and cooperation, expressing confidence that the partnership between the state government and the military would deliver further improvements in security and public safety.