Nigeria’s Army Chief Stresses Regional Cooperation to Counter Drug Trafficking and Cybercrime
MONROVIA—Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has called for enhanced inter-agency and international cooperation to tackle escalating security threats in West Africa, including drug trafficking, cybercrime, and maritime insecurity. General Shaibu delivered this message as the keynote speaker at the 69th Armed Forces Day celebration in Liberia on February 12, 2026.
Speaking under the theme “Securing Liberia Together: Strengthening Inter-Agency Cooperation Against Drugs, Trafficking, and Emerging Security Threats,” General Shaibu advocated for a “whole-of-government and whole-of-society” approach. He argued that regional peace and stability depend on robust coordination among security agencies and sustained international partnerships.
The event underscored the deep military ties between Nigeria and Liberia. General Shaibu’s participation reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to defense diplomacy in the region. He highlighted his personal history with Liberia, having previously served as Military Assistant to Liberia’s former Chief of Staff and receiving the Distinguished Service Order for his contributions to the country’s defense sector.
General Shaibu praised the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) for its role in national rebuilding, describing it as a successful example of international cooperation. He recalled Nigeria’s historical support for Liberia, particularly through the Economic Community of West African States Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) during past conflicts, noting that this solidarity remains a pillar of Nigeria’s foreign policy and African brotherhood.
A significant portion of his address focused on the threat of illicit drugs, especially synthetic substances. He warned that drug proliferation fuels youth addiction, social fragmentation, economic damage, and the rise of organized crime and violent extremism. To combat this, he urged the AFL and all Liberian security stakeholders to foster a culture of cooperation, share intelligence, and strengthen legal frameworks to dismantle trafficking networks.
General Shaibu reaffirmed Nigeria’s ongoing support for the AFL’s transformation through training, mentorship, and strategic partnerships. He commended the professionalism and discipline of Liberian soldiers, stating they are fundamental to the nation’s democracy and security.
The speech concluded by reinforcing the strategic importance of bilateral and regional military collaboration in addressing shared, evolving threats across the West African sub-region.
