President Bola Tinubu has announced a comprehensive restructuring of Nigeria’s military leadership, appointing Lt. General Olufemi Oluyede as the new Chief of Defence Staff in what the presidency described as a strategic move to strengthen the country’s national security architecture.
The announcement, made Friday through a statement by Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, sees Lt. General Oluyede, the former Chief of Army Staff, replacing General Christopher Musa at the helm of the nation’s defence establishment.
The reshuffle affects the leadership of all three service branches, with Major-General W. Shaibu named as the new Chief of Army Staff, Air Vice Marshal S.K. Aneke appointed Chief of Air Staff, and Rear Admiral I. Abbas assuming the role of Chief of Naval Staff. Major-General E.A.P. Undiendeye has been retained as Chief of Defence Intelligence.
In explaining the rationale behind the shake-up, President Tinubu emphasized the need to “further strengthen Nigeria’s national security architecture” amid ongoing security challenges facing the nation. The appointments come at a critical time as the military continues operations against insurgency in the Northeast, banditry in the Northwest, and various security threats across other regions.
The President expressed deep appreciation to the outgoing Service Chiefs, singling out General Musa for recognition. Tinubu thanked them for what he characterized as “selfless service and dedicated leadership” during their tenure.
Addressing the newly appointed military chiefs, Tinubu issued a clear mandate focused on institutional excellence and cohesion. “I charge the new Service Chiefs to strengthen professionalism, vigilance, and unity as they serve our nation with honour,” the President stated.
Lt. General Oluyede’s elevation to Chief of Defence Staff marks a significant milestone in his military career. As the former Army Chief, he brings extensive operational experience to the top defence position, having overseen ground operations during a period of intense security challenges.
The retention of Major-General Undiendeye as Chief of Defence Intelligence suggests continuity in the intelligence architecture, an area considered crucial for coordinating responses to the nation’s complex security threats.
The new appointments are expected to take effect immediately, with observers watching closely to see how the fresh leadership will tackle Nigeria’s persistent security concerns, including terrorism, kidnapping, armed banditry, and communal conflicts that have plagued various parts of the country.
