Major General Waidi Shaibu Biography: Net Worth, Age, Wife, Education, Family, Career & Early LifeMajor General Waidi Shaibu is a highly respected Nigerian military officer and the newly appointed Chief of Army Staff (COAS) as of October 2025. Known for his outstanding academic background and extensive operational experience, he has spent more than three decades serving the nation across various commands and military operations.
A proven strategist and disciplined leader, Shaibu has earned admiration for his contribution to Nigeria’s security, especially in counter-insurgency operations. Many describe him as a soldier whose abilities are a blend of intelligence, resilience, and integrity. As one analyst stated, “Shaibu represents the modern Nigerian soldier — educated, experienced, and prepared for complex challenges.”
This biography explores his early life, education, family, career journey, achievements, and more.
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Highlights of Major General Waidi Shaibu Biography
- Full Name: Waidi Shaibu
- Date of Birth: December 18, 1971
- Age: 53 years (as of 2025)
- State of Origin: Kogi State (Olamaboro Local Government Area)
- Position: Chief of Army Staff (appointed October 2025)
- Profession: Senior Military Officer (Armour Corps)
- Net Worth: Estimated between $100,000 – $120,500
- Marital Status: Married
- Children: Two to three, depending on different reports
- Education: BSc Mechanical Engineering, multiple master’s degrees, extensive military training
Early Life
Waidi Shaibu was born on December 18, 1971, in Olamaboro Local Government Area of Kogi State. Raised in a modest environment, he grew up with values rooted in discipline, hard work, and service. These early influences shaped his passion for a military career. From a young age, he demonstrated leadership qualities and a commitment to excellence that later defined his journey in the Nigerian Army.
Education
Major General Shaibu has one of the most impressive educational profiles among Nigerian military leaders. His academic and military training includes:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Kaduna
- Postgraduate Certificate in Public Administration from the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA)
- Master’s in Public Administration from the University of Calabar
- Master’s in Strategic Studies from the University of Ibadan
- Master’s in Security and Strategic Studies from the National Defence University, Washington D.C., USA
- Advanced leadership and strategy programs at the Harvard Kennedy School
- Senior executive courses in defence management, productivity, and national security
- Currently pursuing a PhD in Strategic Studies at the University of Ibadan
His educational background reflects a blend of technical expertise, strategic insight, and leadership training — all crucial in modern military operations.
Career / Professional Journey
Waidi Shaibu joined the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1989 as part of the 41st Regular Course. On September 17, 1994, he was commissioned into the Nigerian Army Armour Corps as a Second Lieutenant. Over the next 30+ years, he built a distinguished military career marked by excellence, leadership, and service.
Some of his major roles and achievements include:
- Commander, 21 Special Armoured Brigade, Bama
- General Officer Commanding (GOC), 7 Division, Maiduguri
- Theatre Commander, Operation HADIN KAI, Nigeria’s major anti-insurgency operation
- Senior staff roles at Defence Headquarters, including Director of Defence Administration
- Chief Instructor at the Nigerian Army Armour School
- International missions under the United Nations and African Union, including deployments in Liberia and Sudan
- Key participant in major security operations such as Operation Harmony, Lafiya Dole, Zaman Lafiya, and Tura Takaibango
In October 2025, he was appointed the 25th Chief of Army Staff (COAS) of the Nigerian Army. His appointment recognized his strategic brilliance, operational experience, and integrity. As COAS, his mandate includes strengthening professionalism, enhancing troops’ welfare, and improving operational effectiveness across Nigeria.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
Major General Waidi Shaibu’s estimated net worth ranges between $100,000 and $120,500. This estimate is based on official salaries, allowances, and long years of service as a public officer. There is no public evidence suggesting extravagance or excessive personal wealth.
True to military discipline, he is known for living a modest and structured lifestyle, focusing on duty rather than luxury.
Personal Life
Shaibu is married, and while details about his wife remain private, she is reported to be named Hajia Safiyyah Hassan. They have two or possibly three children, according to varying sources. The family maintains a low profile due to security considerations.
Outside the uniform, Shaibu is described as calm, humble, and deeply focused. He enjoys reading, physical fitness routines, and quiet outdoor activities. His lifestyle reflects discipline and dedication.
Conclusion
Major General Waidi Shaibu’s biography is a story of discipline, intelligence, courage, and unwavering commitment to national service. From his early years in Kogi State to leading Nigeria’s Army, he embodies the qualities of a modern military leader.
His combination of academic brilliance and combat experience makes him uniquely positioned to guide the Nigerian Army in challenging times. As COAS, his leadership is expected to shape military reforms, strengthen operational capabilities, and uphold the values of honour, integrity, and professionalism.
His life remains an inspiration to young Nigerians aspiring to serve their nation with excellence.
FAQs About Major General Waidi Shaibu
1. What is Major General Waidi Shaibu’s net worth?
His estimated net worth is between $100,000 and $120,500, based on available public data about senior military service.
2. How old is Major General Waidi Shaibu?
He was born on December 18, 1971, making him 53 years old in 2025.
3. What is his educational background?
He holds a BSc in Mechanical Engineering, several master’s degrees in public administration, security, and strategic studies, and is pursuing a PhD in Strategic Studies.
4. Is he married?
Yes, he is married. His wife is reported to be Hajia Safiyyah Hassan, though not much is publicly disclosed about her.
5. How many children does he have?
Reports vary, but he is believed to have two or three children.
6. What are his major achievements?
He is known for commanding Operation HADIN KAI, leading the 7 Division, serving in international missions, and becoming the Chief of Army Staff in 2025.
7. How did he become prominent?
His rise is due to decades of outstanding military service, educational excellence, leadership in counter-insurgency operations, and his appointment as COAS.
