Oluyede Replaces Musa as CDS as Tinubu Appoints New Service Chiefs
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a major shake-up in the leadership of the Nigerian Armed Forces as part of his administration’s efforts to strengthen the country’s national security architecture. The announcement marks one of the most significant military leadership changes since Tinubu assumed office. According to a statement released on Friday by Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, General Olufemi Oluyede has been appointed as the new Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), succeeding General Christopher Musa. The appointment takes immediate effect. In the statement, President Tinubu also named Major-General W. Shaibu as the new Chief of Army Staff, Air Vice Marshal S.K. Aneke as Chief of Air Staff, and Rear Admiral I. Abbas as the new Chief of Naval Staff. The Chief of Defence Intelligence, Major-General E.A.P. Undiendeye, will retain his position. The president’s latest appointments are aimed at ensuring continuity, professionalism, and a renewed strategic direction in addressing the nation’s evolving security challenges. The move comes amid ongoing counterterrorism operations, banditry concerns, and efforts to restore peace across conflict-prone regions. Tinubu expressed his appreciation to the outgoing service chiefs for their patriotic service and commitment to the nation. He commended their leadership and dedication to safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity during their tenure. “Their sacrifices and contributions to national stability will never be forgotten,” the president said, as quoted in the official statement. He further urged the new appointees to uphold discipline, loyalty, and excellence in their service to the nation. The newly appointed service chiefs are expected to build upon existing reforms within the defence sector, focusing on intelligence-driven operations, enhanced inter-agency collaboration, and modernization of military capabilities. President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to the safety of all Nigerians and the defence of the nation’s unity, emphasizing that security remains a top priority in his Renewed Hope Agenda.
