ABUJA, Nigeria (FN) — President Bola Tinubu on Friday dismissed Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar from his post as Chief of the Air Staff, part of a sweeping overhaul of Nigeria’s military leadership aimed at bolstering national security and operational efficiency.
Abubakar, who was appointed in June 2023, served just over a year before being replaced by Rear Admiral Ibrahim Abbas, who now assumes command of the Nigerian Air Force. The announcement was made through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, alongside the removal of other top military officials including the Chiefs of Defence, Army, and Naval Staff.
The presidency did not immediately provide reasons for the shake-up, but analysts say the move reflects Tinubu’s intent to recalibrate Nigeria’s security strategy amid persistent threats from insurgent groups and rising insecurity across several regions.
Abubakar, a career officer with over three decades of service, had previously overseen key reforms in air operations and personnel training. His tenure was marked by efforts to modernize the Air Force’s fleet and improve tactical coordination, though critics pointed to continued challenges in air surveillance and civilian casualties during counterinsurgency missions.
Rear Admiral Abbas, though previously serving in the Navy, is expected to bring a joint-force perspective to the Air Force leadership. His appointment signals a possible shift toward integrated command structures and cross-service collaboration.
Reactions to the dismissal were mixed. Defense Ministry officials described the transition as “routine and strategic,” emphasizing the president’s constitutional authority to appoint service chiefs. “This is about aligning leadership with evolving security demands,” said a senior official who spoke on condition of anonymity.
Supporters of Abubakar expressed disappointment, citing his commitment to reform and professionalism. “He was a disciplined officer who genuinely cared about the welfare of his men,” said Musa Ibrahim, a retired squadron leader. “It’s unfortunate he didn’t get more time to implement his vision.”
On social media, some Nigerians welcomed the change, hoping it would lead to improved security outcomes. “We need fresh ideas and accountability,” wrote one user on X, formerly Twitter. “Let’s give the new chiefs a chance.”
The new appointments take immediate effect, with formal handover ceremonies expected in the coming days. Tinubu’s administration has pledged to prioritize defense modernization and inter-agency coordination as part of its broader national security agenda.
