The Oganenigu People’s Mandate (OPM) has extended warm congratulations to Major General Waidi Shaibu on his appointment as Nigeria’s new Chief of Army Staff.
In a statement, President of OPM, Prophet Abimaje, expressed hope that the excitement surrounding General Shaibu’s appointment would translate into tangible benefits for the people of Igala land and Kogi State.
“It is our prayers that the excitement over the appointment of the new CoAS shouldn’t be in vain,” the group said.
OPM noted that Igala land has a history of producing notable military leaders, including Vice Admiral Ibrahim Ogohi, who served as Chief of Defence Staff from 1999 to 2003, Isaac Alfa, who was Chief of Air Staff from 2001 to 2003, and Usman Oyibe ibrin, who was Chief of Naval Staff from 2014 to 2015.
However, the group expressed disappointment with the perceived lack of significant achievements from some of these past leaders, the statement said. “Apart from Jibrin, I stand to be corrected, I am yet to see any significant achievements from those Obasanjo gave all the hands to make impact,” OPM said.
The group expressed hope that General Shaibu’s appointment would bring about positive change in the region. “Now we are blessed with Gen. Waidi Shuaibu as the CoAS. It is our hopes that this will permanently end kidnapping in Igala land and Kogi State, end political thuggery and help set up Army Forward operation base in all flash-points area in Kogi East, Kogi State and Nigeria at large,” the statement added.
OPM congratulated General Shaibu on his appointment, wishing him success in his new role. “Congratulations, Gen. Waidi Shuaibu,” the group said.