President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced a sweeping reshuffle of Nigeria’s military high command, in what officials describe as a renewed push to strengthen national security and reinforce professionalism within the Armed Forces.
In the major shake-up unveiled on Friday, General Olufemi Oluyede has been appointed Chief of Defence Staff, replacing General Christopher Musa. Major-General W. Shaibu assumes office as the Chief of Army Staff, while Air Vice Marshal S.K. Aneke becomes the Chief of Air Staff. Rear Admiral I. Abbas takes charge as the Chief of Naval Staff, and Major-General E.A.P. Undiendeye retains his position as Chief of Defence Intelligence.
President Tinubu commended the outgoing service chiefs for their “dedicated service and leadership to the nation,” noting that their contributions had been “vital to Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to maintain peace and security.”
“The security of our nation demands constant vigilance, discipline, and unity of purpose,” the President said. “The new service chiefs must demonstrate exceptional professionalism and a deep commitment to the values that define our Armed Forces.”
A senior presidency official described the move as “a decisive step to inject fresh energy into Nigeria’s security architecture,” emphasizing that the appointments are effective immediately.
The new military leaders are expected to focus on counterterrorism operations, internal security stabilization, and improved coordination among the service branches in line with President Tinubu’s broader national security strategy.
