President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced a major shake-up in Nigeria’s military leadership, relieving General Christopher Gwabin Musa of his position as Chief of Defence Staff (CDS).
In a statement released by the Presidency, Tinubu appointed General Olufemi Oluyede as the new Chief of Defence Staff, marking a decisive move to “strengthen Nigeria’s national security architecture.”
The sweeping changes also affected other service chiefs:
Major General W. Shaibu — appointed Chief of Army Staff
Air Vice Marshal S.K. Aneke — appointed Chief of Air Staff
Rear Admiral I. Abbas — appointed Chief of Naval Staff
Major General E.A.P. Undiendeye retains his position as Chief of Defence Intelligence
According to the statement from the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, the restructuring takes immediate effect and reflects the administration’s commitment to improving coordination, discipline, and operational efficiency within the Armed Forces.
The development follows weeks of speculation about discontent within the military ranks and growing public debate over Nigeria’s security strategy. Analysts believe the move is aimed at reinvigorating the country’s counter-terrorism and internal security operations.
The Presidency emphasized that the new appointments align with Tinubu’s vision to build a professional, accountable, and responsive military capable of confronting current and emerging security threats across Nigeria.
