ABUJA, Nigeria (FN) — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a major overhaul of Nigeria’s military leadership, appointing new Service Chiefs in a move aimed at reinforcing the country’s national security architecture.
Lt. General Olufemi Oluyede has been named Chief of Defence Staff, replacing General Christopher Musa. Oluyede’s appointment signals a strategic shift in defense coordination amid growing security challenges nationwide.
Major-General W. Shaibu has been appointed Chief of Army Staff, taking over from Oluyede, who now leads the Defence Headquarters. Shaibu’s elevation marks a generational transition within the Army’s top command.
Air Vice Marshal S.K. Aneke succeeds Air Vice Marshal H.B. Abubakar as Chief of Air Staff. Aneke is expected to lead modernization efforts in aerial surveillance and tactical operations.
Rear Admiral I. Abbas has been named Chief of Naval Staff, replacing Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla. Abbas’s leadership comes at a time of heightened concern over maritime security and oil theft in Nigeria’s coastal regions.
Major-General E.A.P. Undiendeye retains his position as Chief of Defence Intelligence, providing continuity in intelligence coordination during the broader restructuring.
The appointments were announced Friday by Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication. All new Service Chiefs are expected to assume office immediately.
President Tinubu said the reshuffle was necessary to strengthen the country’s security framework and praised the outgoing chiefs for their service.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio welcomed the appointments, describing them as “timely and strategic.” He urged the new Service Chiefs to “act decisively and professionally in restoring peace and stability across the country.” Akpabio also pledged the Senate’s support in approving necessary resources to enhance military operations.
Former Kaduna Central Senator Shehu Sani welcomed the change, describing it as “long overdue” and essential for progress in the fight against insecurity. He commended outgoing Defence Chief General Musa for his leadership and professionalism.
Public reactions have been mixed. Some Nigerians expressed optimism that the new appointments would bring fresh energy to the fight against terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping. Others voiced concern over continuity and the lack of a clear national security roadmap.
Security analyst Adebayo Ojo said leadership changes must be matched with strategic reforms and accountability. Civil society groups urged the new Service Chiefs to prioritize human rights, community engagement, and intelligence-led operations.
Religious leaders also weighed in. Reverend Father Emmanuel Eze of the Catholic Diocese of Enugu called for a “humane and disciplined approach to security,” while Pastor David Olumide of Fire of Mercy Church in Abuja said the new leadership must “restore public confidence and protect the vulnerable.”
The reshuffle comes amid growing public anxiety over insecurity and speculation about internal tensions within the military. As the new Service Chiefs assume their roles, Nigerians are watching closely to see whether the leadership overhaul will translate into improved safety and stability across the country.
