The Nigerian Army has released the official portrait of the 25th Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, calling on media organisations and the public to update their archives and use the correct image in all publications.
In a statement issued via its official handle on Tuesday, the Army said the move is aimed at standardising references to the service chief and preventing the use of outdated photographs that show him at a lower rank.
“You are kindly requested to update your media archives accordingly and refrain from using previous photographs, particularly those depicting the Chief of Army Staff with the rank of Major General, in subsequent publications,” the statement read.
The Army further noted that an earlier portrait previously shared through its official channels should no longer be used, urging the public to rely solely on the newly released version.
“Additionally, you are to disregard the initial portrait issued via this handle,” it added.
According to the statement, the directive is part of efforts to ensure consistency across media platforms and official communications regarding the country’s top military officer.
The Nigerian Army also commended journalists and media houses for their continued professionalism and contribution to national security through factual and responsible reporting.
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“The Nigerian Army sincerely appreciates your professionalism, commitment, and invaluable contributions to national security through factual and responsible reporting of our activities,” the statement said.
Lieutenant General Shaibu, who assumed office earlier this year as the 25th Chief of Army Staff, has since overseen several key strategic military operations across the country.
The release of the official portrait, the Army said, formalises his current rank and position, ensuring that the public and media have a clear and accurate visual reference for Nigeria’s top military officer.