President Bola Tinubu has announced changes to the leadership of Nigeria’s Armed Forces as part of efforts to strengthen the country’s national security framework. The announcement was made in a statement by the President’s Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, on Friday.
The statement, titled “Tinubu Changes Service Chiefs,” confirmed the appointment of General Olufemi Oluyede as the new Chief of Defence Staff, replacing General Christopher Musa.
Major-General W. Shaibu has been appointed as the new Chief of Army Staff, Air Vice Marshal S.K. Aneke as Chief of Air Staff, and Rear Admiral I. Abbas as Chief of Naval Staff. Chief of Defence Intelligence Major-General E.A.P. Undiendeye retains his position.
“The President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, expresses profound appreciation to the outgoing Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and the other Service Chiefs for their patriotic service and dedicated leadership,” the statement read.
President Tinubu tasked the newly appointed Service Chiefs with upholding the confidence placed in them by further enhancing professionalism, vigilance, and the spirit of comradeship within the Armed Forces.
The changes are part of the federal government’s ongoing efforts to reinforce the national security architecture and ensure effective coordination among the military leadership.
Observers note that such appointments are strategic in maintaining operational efficiency and stability across the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Defence Intelligence.
The outgoing Service Chiefs were recognised for their contributions to national security and for steering the Armed Forces through various operational challenges during their tenure.
The administration emphasised the importance of leadership continuity while ensuring fresh perspectives to tackle evolving security threats in Nigeria.
The newly appointed chiefs are expected to commence their duties immediately and work closely with the Ministry of Defence to implement the government’s security priorities.