By George Ozalla
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced a sweeping reshuffle of Nigeria’s top military hierarchy, in what the Presidency described as part of efforts to strengthen the nation’s security architecture.
According to a press statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, the new appointments take immediate effect.
Under the new arrangement, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede has been appointed Chief of Defence Staff, replacing General Christopher Musa. Major General W. Shaibu is now the Chief of Army Staff, while Air Vice Marshal S. K. Aneke becomes the Chief of Air Staff. Rear Admiral I. Abbas takes over as Chief of Naval Staff, and Major General E. A. P. Undiendeye retains his position as Chief of Defence Intelligence.
The development comes amid rising security concerns across the country, with continued insurgency in the North-East, banditry in the North-West, and separatist unrest in parts of the South-East. Sources within the defence circle say the move is intended to inject fresh energy and direction into the military’s command structure.
President Tinubu, while commending the outgoing service chiefs for their contributions, urged the new commanders to demonstrate professionalism, courage, and unity of purpose in safeguarding the nation.
