The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, on Thursday, 18th June 2026, paid a courtesy visit to the Emir of Zazzau, Ahmed Nuhu Bamali, at his palace in Zaria, Kaduna State, as part of efforts to strengthen collaboration between the Nigerian Army and traditional institutions in addressing security challenges.
According to a security and counterintelligence expert, Zagazola Makama, on his verified X handle, ” The visit underscored the Nigerian Army’s commitment to deepening partnerships with traditional rulers, whom the military considers critical stakeholders in promoting national security, community resilience and intelligence gathering.”
Speaking during the visit, Shaibu appreciated the sustained support of the Zazzau Emirate to military operations and emphasised the importance of civil-military cooperation in tackling contemporary security threats across the country.
The army chief noted that traditional institutions remained vital in fostering unity, strengthening trust between communities and security agencies, and mobilising collective action against terrorism, banditry and other forms of criminality.
According to General Shaibu, “the Nigerian Army recognises the strategic role of traditional rulers in supporting intelligence-driven operations and enhancing community engagement towards maintaining peace and stability.”
The visit also provided an opportunity to reinforce existing ties between the Nigerian Army and the Zazzau Emirate, while exploring avenues for greater collaboration in support of ongoing security efforts.
The Emir of Zazzau commended the Nigerian Army for its sacrifices and continued commitment to safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity and protecting citizens.
He reaffirmed the emirate’s support for initiatives aimed at promoting peace, security and national cohesion. The visit forms part of the COAS’s engagements with key stakeholders across the country to enhance cooperation and strengthen collective efforts towards addressing emerging security challenges.
