By Nkechi Eze
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has underscored the importance of civilian protection, decisive military action and national unity in addressing security threats, following his visit to Rwanda’s Campaign Against Genocide Museum in Kigali.
Shaibu visited the museum on Monday, October 19, 2026, as part of his official working visit to Rwanda, where he reflected on the lessons of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and the role of the military in protecting innocent lives.
According to an official statement signed by Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director, Army Public Relations, the visit highlighted the importance of collective responsibility in combating genocide and other forms of criminality.
The Campaign Against Genocide Museum chronicles the role of the Rwandan Patriotic Army in ending the 1994 genocide, providing lessons on the protection of civilians, respect for human rights and the promotion of national unity.
The Nigerian Army noted that the experience reinforced the need for Nigerians to rise above ethnic, religious and political differences and work collectively with security agencies to safeguard national peace and stability.
It added that the visit reflected the Nigerian Army’s commitment to civilian protection and its solidarity with the people of Rwanda and the Rwanda Defence Force.
The engagement forms part of Shaibu’s official visit to Rwanda, which provides an opportunity to reflect on military responsibilities, conflict prevention and the importance of protecting civilians in security operations.
