By Dr. Nafisat Makinde
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced a major reorganisation of Nigeria’s military command, appointing new service chiefs to lead the Armed Forces in what the Presidency described as a renewed push for national security and professional discipline.
General Olufemi Oluyede has been named Chief of Defence Staff, succeeding General Christopher Musa. The President also appointed 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. Major-General E. A. P. Undiendeye was retained as Chief of Defence Intelligence to ensure continuity in strategic intelligence operations.
The appointments, announced Friday in Abuja, take immediate effect and come amid government efforts to strengthen the military’s coordination and field response to insurgency, banditry, and separatist violence across the country. Presidential aides described the move as part of a broader national defence reform to improve efficiency and restore public confidence in the security system.
In a statement, the Presidency said the new commanders are expected to “justify the confidence reposed in them” by demonstrating professionalism, integrity, and unity of purpose in protecting the country. The President also directed the outgoing chiefs to hand over all responsibilities without delay to ensure operational continuity.
The reshuffle follows weeks of tension and speculation over alleged coup plots, underscoring what analysts describe as the President’s intent to assert stability and strengthen civilian oversight of the armed forces. Defence sources said the appointments reflect a balance of regional experience, service record, and loyalty to the constitutional chain of command.
