Tinubu replaces Services Chiefs, appoints general Olufemi Oluyede as Chief of Defence Staff
President Bola Tinubu has dismissed Nigeria’s service chiefs in a sweeping shake-up aimed at strengthening the nation’s security architecture.
In a statement on Friday by Sunday Dare, special adviser to the president on media and public communication, Tinubu announced the appointment of General Olufemi Oluyede as the new Chief of Defence Staff, replacing General Christopher Musa. Until his appointment, Oluyede served as Chief of Army Staff.
Major General Waidi Shaibu is now the Chief of Army Staff, while Air Vice Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke takes over as Chief of Air Staff. Rear Admiral I. Abbas was named the new Chief of Naval Staff, as E.A.P Undiendeye retains his position as Chief of Defence Intelligence.
According to Dare, “The President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, expresses most profound appreciation to the outgoing Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and the other Service Chiefs for their patriotic service and dedicated leadership.”
He added that, “President Tinubu charges the newly appointed Service Chiefs to justify the confidence reposed in them by further enhancing the professionalism, vigilance, and comradeship that define the Armed Forces of Nigeria.”
The appointments, which take immediate effect, mark Tinubu’s second major military reshuffle since assuming office in May 2023.
The move follows rising public pressure for stronger security outcomes as Nigeria continues to grapple with terrorism, banditry, and violent crime. Oluyede’s experience in counterterrorism and joint operations is expected to drive Tinubu’s renewed push for a more coordinated and effective military response.
