The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Major General Waidi Shaibu, has publicly honoured the distinguished military career and profound impact of retired Major General Emmanuel Jebe Atewe on the Nigerian Army. The tribute was paid during a solemn ceremony in Agbor, Delta State.
Army Chief Lauds Atewe's Exemplary Service
The COAS spoke at a funeral service organised for Mrs Comfort Atewe, the elder sister of the retired general, on a recent date. Represented by Brigadier General Folu Shonibare, Major General Shaibu described General Atewe's life as one worthy of emulation. He highlighted that the retired officer served Nigeria in "enviable capacities" with uncommon foresight during his active years.
Shaibu, who was appointed COAS by President Bola Tinubu in October 2025, noted that Atewe's roles extended beyond national borders. The retired general represented the Nigerian Army on various local and international platforms, where he played a key part in positively shaping the country's image. According to the army chief, Atewe's "leadership, discipline and strategic insight" were instrumental in elevating the growth and professionalism of the military institution.
Mentorship and Personal Influence Revealed
Brigadier General Shonibare, who delivered the COAS's message, took a personal turn by recounting the direct mentorship he received from the retired general. He revealed that during his early days in the army, General Atewe provided crucial guidance that helped shape his career path.
"His counsel, discipline and leadership style played significant roles in helping me navigate the challenges that came my way," Shonibare stated. He added that due to Atewe's exceptional leadership acumen and admirable personality, "the Chief of Army Staff holds him in very high regard."
A Legacy for Nigerian Youths to Follow
Reflecting on the enduring lessons from General Atewe's career, Brigadier General Shonibare issued a call to action for the younger generation. He urged Nigerian youths to learn from the retired general's core qualities, which include:
- Discipline
- Hard work
- Perseverance
- Integrity
He emphasized that in the current global landscape, only young people who demonstrate unflinching commitment will achieve their goals. "Young people must learn from the life of General Atewe. With vision, discipline and commitment to service, it is possible to rise to the highest levels of leadership," Shonibare advised.
Context: COAS on Broader Security Efforts
The public commendation comes at a time when the Nigerian military is intensifying its efforts to address the nation's security challenges. In related developments, COAS Shaibu has recently assured citizens that ongoing military operations will soon yield positive results, despite rising public concerns.
During an operational visit to the One Division, Nigerian Army Headquarters in Kaduna, the army chief urged troops to remain professional and committed. It is noteworthy that prior to his appointment as COAS, Major General Waidi Shaibu served as the Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai in the Northeast, where he led counter-insurgency operations against Boko Haram and ISWAP.
The event in Agbor served not only as a familial tribute but also as a platform to celebrate institutional legacy, reinforcing the values of service and leadership within the Nigerian Army.
