President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has explained that the recent changes in Nigeria’s military leadership were aimed at strengthening the country’s national security architecture.
The President made this known in a statement shared on his X (formerly Twitter) handle on Friday, shortly after announcing a major shake-up in the hierarchy of the Armed Forces.
Tinubu expressed appreciation to the outgoing Service Chiefs for their dedication and service to the nation, while charging the newly appointed military leaders to uphold professionalism, discipline, and unity in their duties.
“I have approved changes in the hierarchy of our Armed Forces to further strengthen Nigeria’s national security architecture,” the President wrote.
“General Olufemi Oluyede is appointed Chief of Defence Staff; Major-General W. Shaibu becomes Chief of Army Staff; Air Vice Marshal S.K. Aneke is Chief of Air Staff; and Rear Admiral I. Abbas is the new Chief of Naval Staff, while Major-General E.A.P. Undiendeye retains his role as Chief of Defence Intelligence.”
“I thank General Christopher Musa and the outgoing Service Chiefs for their selfless service and dedicated leadership. I charge the new Service Chiefs to deepen professionalism, vigilance, and unity within our Armed Forces as they serve our nation with honour.”
Earlier on Friday, Tinubu approved the dismissal of General Christopher Musa as Chief of Defence Staff, appointing General Olufemi Oluyede as his replacement.
The changes, confirmed in a statement by Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, also saw the appointment of new heads for the Army, Air Force, and Navy.
Under the new structure:
General Olufemi Oluyede – Chief of Defence Staff
Major-General W. Shaibu – Chief of Army Staff
Air Vice Marshal S.K. Aneke – Chief of Air Staff
Rear Admiral I. Abbas – Chief of Naval Staff
Major-General E.A.P. Undiendeye – Chief of Defence Intelligence (retained position)
The Presidency noted that the reorganisation takes immediate effect, signalling a renewed focus on military efficiency and security reforms across Nigeria.
