Nigeria Bore Heaviest Burden in Liberia's Civil War, Says Army Chief
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has declared that Nigeria played a decisive and pivotal role in restoring peace to Liberia, emphasizing that Nigerian troops shouldered the bulk of operational responsibilities during the country's devastating civil war. Shaibu made these significant remarks on Wednesday, February 11, at the Barclay Training Centre in Monrovia, during the 69th Armed Forces Day anniversary celebration of the Armed Forces of Liberia.
His powerful statements were detailed in an official release issued by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Appolonia Anele. According to the COAS, the relative stability and peace that Liberia enjoys today are direct results of deliberate political will, robust regional solidarity, and the immense sacrifices made by Nigerian soldiers on the ground.
Strategic Commitment to West African Stability
Shaibu explained that Nigeria's deep involvement under the ECOWAS Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) was a strategic decision firmly rooted in its foreign and defense policy objectives. He stressed that this engagement was far from incidental or transactional; it was a conscious and calculated decision taken in the collective interest of ensuring stability across West Africa.
Recalling the turbulent period of civil conflict, the Army Chief stated that Nigerian forces formed the very backbone of the peace enforcement mission. They undertook the most demanding and hazardous tasks, suffering significant casualties in the process to halt state collapse, restore order, and preserve Liberia's sovereignty.
Substantial Contributions and Lasting Impact
Shaibu added that Nigeria committed substantial troops, extensive resources, and unwavering political support over a prolonged period. This commitment laid the essential groundwork for national reconciliation, democratic transition, and comprehensive post-war reconstruction in Liberia. The COAS reflected on his personal involvement in restructuring the Armed Forces of Liberia, describing the complex process as akin to rebuilding "an aircraft in flight," reforming the military while it remained operational.
During the ceremony, two senior Nigerian Army officers, Brig. Gen. Mohammed Sani Usman and Brig. Gen. Owoicho Egiga, were decorated with Liberia's prestigious Distinguished Service Order. This honor was in recognition of their outstanding contributions and dedicated service to the Armed Forces of Liberia.
Legacy of Mentorship and Future Cooperation
Shaibu expressed profound satisfaction that officers he mentored during the reform process now occupy key leadership positions within the Liberian military. He described the current Armed Forces of Liberia as a living testament to sustained regional cooperation and effective international partnership.
In his concluding remarks, the Chief of Army Staff urged the Liberian military to steadfastly uphold professionalism, loyalty to constitutional authority, and its enduring culture of sacrifice. He assured continued Nigerian support through advisory roles and capacity-building initiatives, reinforcing the enduring bond between the two nations.
