By Joy Odor Reportcircle News
In a powerful blend of statecraft, symbolism and strategy, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Thursday stepped into the historic Iga Idunganran Palace, where he sought and received the royal endorsement of His Royal Majesty, Oba Rilwan Akiolu I, in what insiders describe as a renewed grassroots mobilisation drive for national security.
The visit formal in protocol but deeply cultural in meaning signalled the Army’s recognition that Nigeria’s security battles cannot be won by force alone, but through the influence and legitimacy of traditional authority.
Arriving at the palace in a lean but high-powered entourage, General Shaibu paid homage to the Oba and the council of chiefs before taking his seat for private discussions.
When he eventually addressed the monarch, his message was deliberate and rooted in cultural diplomacy:
“Nigeria’s customs and traditions are sacrosanct,” he said.
“I am here not only to show appreciation, but to seek your blessings for the tasks ahead.”
For a military chief responsible for stabilising a nation under persistent security strain, the optics were unmistakable this was not a courtesy call, but an operational consultation.
With a tone that blended gratitude and strategic appeal, the COAS praised Oba Akiolu for his consistent support to Army formations across Lagos, describing the monarch’s influence as a silent but powerful factor in maintaining peace in one of the country’s most sensitive states.
He spoke of Lagos as a political, economic and cultural nerve centre whose stability is non-negotiable:
“Your fatherly role continues to strengthen our civil military cooperation,” he said.
“Your goodwill has tangible impact on our operations.”
The Oba of Lagos, widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most outspoken traditional rulers, responded with characteristic bluntness and warmth.
He praised the Nigerian Army as “a pillar without which the Nigerian state cannot stand” applauding the sacrifices of personnel operating across multiple conflict zones.
Turning to General Shaibu, he offered a firm vote of confidence:
“You have shown leadership, firmness and dedication,” he declared. “May God guide you as you serve Nigeria.”
The Monarch then led special prayers for peace in Nigeria, protection for military personnel and a successful tenure for the 25th Chief of Army Staff.
Behind the ceremony and pleasantries was a clear message: the Nigerian Army is deepening its engagement with traditional rulers as force multipliers in intelligence-gathering, community trust-building and conflict de-escalation.
In a state like Lagos where population density, maritime borders, economic assets and social diversity create a complex security ecosystem Royal influence remains a critical stabilising tool.
The meeting reaffirmed a long-standing but often understated truth: In Nigeria’s security architecture, tradition and military power do not compete, they complement.
As the COAS departed the palace, greeted by chiefs and palace officials, one takeaway stood out:
The Army is signalling that the path to peace does not run solely through barracks, checkpoints, and operations rooms, it also runs through palaces, traditions and the moral authority of kings.
And with the Oba of Lagos’ renewed blessing, General Shaibu appears to have sealed a powerful partnership at a time the nation needs every stabilising force it can muster.
