President Tinubu Sacks Service Chiefs, Appoints New Military Leadership, Retains Chief of Defence Intelligence

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has dismissed the nation’s service chiefs, announcing a new slate of top military commanders in a decisive move aimed at revitalizing the armed forces and strengthening national security. The announcement, made through a statement from the Presidency on Thursday, marks one of the most significant military reshuffles since Tinubu assumed office in May 2023.

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According to the statement, General Olufemi Oluyede has been appointed as the new Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), succeeding General Christopher Musa, who has held the position since June 2023. The President also approved the appointment of Major-General W. as the new Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Air Vice Marshal S.K. Aneke as the new Chief of Air Staff (CAS), and Rear Admiral I. Abbas as the new Chief of Naval Staff (CNS).

However, in a notable exception, the Chief of Defence Intelligence (CDI), Major-General E.A.P. Undiendeye, has been retained in his current position, a move widely seen as an endorsement of his performance and ongoing intelligence operations under his command.

A Strategic Realignment

The changes, coming amid ongoing security challenges across various parts of the country, are expected to inject fresh energy into the military’s leadership and operational direction. Nigeria continues to grapple with terrorism in the North East, banditry and kidnappings in the North West, secessionist agitation in the South East, and oil theft in the Niger Delta region.

Presidential aides described the appointments as a “strategic realignment” designed to ensure “efficiency, synergy, and accountability” among the armed forces. A senior Presidency source revealed that the decision followed a comprehensive performance review of the defence sector, with emphasis on the need for innovative leadership and improved coordination among the services.

“The President believes that the time has come to reenergize our military institutions with new thinking and renewed vigor,” the source said. “The focus now is on measurable results, inter-agency collaboration, and intelligence-driven operations.”

Profile of the New Chiefs

General Olufemi Oluyede, the new Chief of Defence Staff, is a seasoned officer with decades of experience in counterterrorism, peacekeeping, and defence strategy. He previously served in key command positions within the Nigerian Army and has represented the country in several international military engagements. Known for his disciplined leadership style and strong operational background, Oluyede is expected to spearhead a more unified approach to joint military operations.

Major-General W., the new Chief of Army Staff, brings a record of field experience in internal security operations. He has commanded troops in counter-insurgency missions and peace enforcement operations, earning respect among junior officers for his pragmatic and hands-on leadership.

Air Vice Marshal S.K. Aneke, who now leads the Nigerian Air Force, has held critical roles in air operations and logistics. His appointment is seen as a push to modernize Nigeria’s air capabilities, enhance aerial surveillance, and improve support for ground forces.

Rear Admiral I. Abbas, the new Chief of Naval Staff, has a background in maritime security and naval intelligence. He is expected to focus on combating oil theft, piracy, and illegal fishing in Nigeria’s territorial waters—issues that have long plagued the nation’s economy.

Meanwhile, Major-General E.A.P. Undiendeye, who continues as the Chief of Defence Intelligence, is credited with advancing Nigeria’s military intelligence infrastructure and improving coordination with both domestic and foreign intelligence agencies. His retention underscores the President’s confidence in his ongoing reforms and the sensitive nature of ongoing intelligence operations.

Public and Political Reactions

The announcement has generated immediate reactions across the political and defence spectrum. Security experts have described the reshuffle as “timely,” considering the evolving nature of Nigeria’s security threats. Analysts also noted that retaining the Chief of Defence Intelligence ensures continuity in intelligence gathering, which is vital for operational success.

Dr. Kabiru Adamu, a security analyst, said the new appointments reflect a deliberate attempt by the President to balance experience with renewal. “The retention of Major-General Undiendeye is a sign that the administration values continuity in intelligence leadership, especially in a time of rising transnational threats,” he said.

Within the National Assembly, lawmakers welcomed the move, calling for better oversight and accountability. The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Defence commended the President’s decision, urging the new service chiefs to “deliver tangible results and restore public confidence in the military.”

Renewed Hope for Security

Since assuming office, President Tinubu has repeatedly emphasized his administration’s commitment to restoring peace and stability across the country. His decision to overhaul the military leadership is widely interpreted as a response to growing public concern over persistent insecurity.

In his statement, the President charged the new service chiefs to “justify the confidence reposed in them” and to “work collaboratively towards securing every inch of Nigerian territory.”

The new appointees are expected to be decorated and formally assume duty following confirmation by the National Assembly in accordance with constitutional provisions.

As Nigeria braces for the next phase of its security operations, expectations are high that the newly appointed service chiefs will bring innovation, discipline, and renewed commitment to the mission of safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty and protecting its citizens.