President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved sweeping changes in the leadership of Nigeria’s Armed Forces, appointing new Service Chiefs in a move the Presidency says is designed to strengthen the nation’s security architecture.
According to a State House press release signed by Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, the President appointed General Olufemi Oluyede as the new Chief of Defence Staff, replacing General Christopher Musa.
Also appointed are Major-General W. Shaibu as 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, while Major-General E.A.P. Undiendeye retains his position as Chief of Defence Intelligence.
President Tinubu, who is also the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, expressed his appreciation to the outgoing Service Chiefs for their patriotic service and dedicated leadership, noting that their efforts helped sustain unity and stability across the country.
“The President charges the newly appointed Service Chiefs to justify the confidence reposed in them to further enhance the professionalism, vigilance, and comradeship that define the Armed Forces of Nigeria,” the statement read.
It may be recalled that in recent weeks, reports of an alleged coup plot had circulated across sections of the media and on social platforms, stirring anxiety among Nigerians.
However, the latest changes in the military hierarchy are unconnected to those rumours, as the government has continued to describe such claims as unfounded and mischievous.
The new appointments, which take immediate effect, are seen as part of ongoing efforts by the Tinubu administration to reposition the Armed Forces, deepen intelligence coordination, and enhance operational effectiveness in addressing the nation’s security challenges.
This development marks the first major military shake-up under President Tinubu’s leadership, signalling a renewed focus on professionalism, discipline, and strategic defence management.
