President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved major changes in the hierarchy of Nigeria’s Armed Forces, appointing new Service Chiefs in what the Presidency describes as a strategic move to strengthen the country’s security framework.
The announcement was made on Friday in a statement signed by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare. According to the statement, the changes are “in furtherance of the efforts of the Federal Government of Nigeria to strengthen the national security architecture.” The move marks another phase in Tinubu’s ongoing push to reform the defense structure since assuming office.
In the new appointments, General Olufemi Oluyede takes over as the Chief of Defence Staff, replacing General Christopher Musa, who has served in the position since 2023. The President also named Major-General W. Shaibu as the new Chief of Army Staff, while Air Vice Marshal S.K. Aneke becomes the Chief of Air Staff. Similarly, Rear Admiral I. Abbas has been appointed as the Chief of Naval Staff, and Major-General E.A.P. Undiendeye retains his position as the Chief of Defence Intelligence.
“The President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, expresses most profound appreciation to the outgoing Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and the other Service Chiefs for their patriotic service and dedicated leadership,” Dare said in the statement.
Speaking further, Dare noted that President Tinubu expects the new military leaders to demonstrate professionalism and renewed dedication to national security. “The President has charged the newly appointed Service Chiefs to justify the confidence reposed in them by further enhancing the professionalism, vigilance, and comradeship that define Nigeria’s Armed Forces,” he stated.
He added that all appointments take immediate effect, underscoring the urgency of Tinubu’s directive and the administration’s determination to fortify the nation’s defense system amid growing security concerns.
This latest reshuffle is not the first under Tinubu’s administration. On June 19, 2023, the President had approved the retirement of all Service Chiefs, the Inspector-General of Police, and the Comptroller-General of Customs as part of a broader plan to reposition the country’s security leadership.
At that time, Tinubu explained that the decision was aimed at “restructuring the national security architecture to make it more efficient and responsive.” The move came during a period of heightened insecurity across the nation — from insurgency in the Northeast and banditry in the Northwest to secessionist tensions in the Southeast.
Recent months have seen Nigeria’s security situation remain a central topic of national discussion. Reports had circulated in October about an alleged plot by some military officers to overthrow the Tinubu administration — a claim that sparked public outrage and concern over the stability of the democratic government. Prominent Nigerians, including civil society groups, senior lawyers, and retired generals, publicly warned against any attempt to subvert democracy, emphasizing the need for unity within the Armed Forces.
In response to the controversy, the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, issued a strong rebuttal to the report published by Sahara Reporters, which claimed that 16 military officers had been detained over a failed coup attempt.
In his statement, Gusau described the story as false and dangerous, saying it was “intended to cause unnecessary tension and distrust among the populace.” He assured Nigerians that the military remains committed to upholding the constitution and supporting democratic governance.
Gusau further clarified that the cancellation of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day anniversary parade – which some reports linked to the alleged coup was purely administrative and had no political undertone.
“The decision was made to allow the President to attend a bilateral meeting abroad and to enable troops to sustain ongoing operations against insurgency and banditry,” he explained. He urged citizens to disregard rumors and maintain confidence in the Armed Forces’ loyalty and professionalism.
As the new Service Chiefs assume office, expectations are high for a fresh approach to tackling Nigeria’s complex security challenges. With multiple conflicts stretching the military’s capacity from terrorism to kidnapping and communal violence Tinubu’s appointments signal a renewed effort to stabilize the country.
“This administration will continue to prioritize the safety and security of every Nigerian,” Dare quoted the President as saying. “We must stand united in defending our nation and upholding the values that define our democracy.” The coming months will reveal how effectively the new military leadership can translate that directive into real progress on the ground.
Profile of the New Service Chiefs
General Olufemi Oluyede
Chief of Defence Staff
Lieutenant General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede, born in 1968 in Ikere, Ekiti State, is a distinguished Nigerian Army officer who became the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) on 24 October 2025. Before this elevation, he served as the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) from September 30, 2024, marking a steady rise through the military hierarchy over a career spanning nearly four decades.
His journey in the Nigerian Army began in 1987 when he joined the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) as a cadet. After rigorous military and academic training, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in 1992, marking the start of a career characterized by professionalism, discipline, and dedication to national service.
A proud member of the 39th Regular Course of the NDA, Oluyede trained alongside notable officers, including the late Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, whom he would later succeed as Chief of Army Staff. Over the years, Oluyede held several key command and staff positions across Nigeria and in international operations.
He rose through the ranks with consistent excellence, earning a reputation for leadership and operational efficiency. By 2020, he was promoted to the rank of Major General, a reflection of his deep experience and contribution to the Army’s evolving role in national defense and counter-insurgency operations.
Throughout his military career, Oluyede has served in a wide range of leadership roles. He began as a Platoon Commander and Adjutant at the 65 Battalion, later serving as Company Commander at the 177 Guards Battalion and Staff Officer with the Guards Brigade. His expertise in tactical operations and troop coordination led to his appointment as Commandant of the Amphibious Training School, where he oversaw the training of officers in amphibious warfare techniques. He also commanded the 27 Task Force Brigade in the North-East, leading critical operations under Operation HADIN KAI, a major military campaign against insurgent groups. His leadership in this role earned him recognition for bravery, strategic foresight, and commitment to national security.
Beyond Nigeria’s borders, Lieutenant General Oluyede has also made significant contributions to international peacekeeping. He participated in the ECOMOG Mission in Liberia, which aimed to restore peace and stability during the country’s civil war, and later took part in Operation HARMONY IV in the Bakassi Peninsula, where he was involved in conflict resolution and peace enforcement duties.
These international missions not only broadened his military experience but also strengthened Nigeria’s reputation for contributing to global peace efforts. His involvement in these operations showcased his ability to adapt to complex environments and coordinate multinational forces effectively.
In 2024, following the temporary indisposition of Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appointed Oluyede as the Acting Chief of Army Staff. His performance in that role was marked by stability and continuity, earning him praise from both the military hierarchy and civilian leadership.
Recognizing his competence, the Nigerian Senate confirmed his appointment later that year, and he officially assumed office on 9 December 2024. Prior to that appointment, Oluyede had served as the 56th Commander of the Infantry Corps of the Nigerian Army in Jaji, Kaduna, a position that further honed his leadership and organizational skills.
His long and accomplished service has been recognized through numerous awards and honors, reflecting his commitment to excellence and dedication to duty. Among these are the Corps Medal of Honour, Grand Service Star, Field Command Medal of Honour, Field Training Medal, and the Chief of Army Staff Commendation Award. He is also a Member of the National Institute, an acknowledgment of his strategic understanding of defense and governance. These honors underline his professional integrity and contribution to the growth of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
Major-General W. Shaibu
Chief of Army Staff
Major General Wale Shuaibu did not rise to prominence by chance; his success in the Nigerian Army is the result of decades of deliberate effort, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to service. His military career reflects a steady climb through the ranks, marked by courage, intelligence, and leadership excellence. Known for his operational brilliance and calm approach to complex missions, Shuaibu has earned numerous honors for his meritorious service across different commands. His name has become synonymous with strategic efficiency, particularly in operations aimed at restoring peace and stability in Nigeria’s troubled regions.
Before his current appointment as Chief of Army Staff, Major General Shuaibu made a strong mark as the Theatre Commander of Operation HADIN KAI, the Nigerian military’s counter-insurgency mission in the North-East. In this role, he coordinated a range of tactical and humanitarian efforts designed to defeat insurgents, reclaim territories, and protect civilians.
Under his leadership, the mission recorded impressive results numerous terrorists were neutralized, camps dismantled, and many insurgents, including their families, voluntarily surrendered to the authorities. These efforts contributed significantly to the gradual stabilization of communities once ravaged by conflict, as surrendered fighters were moved into rehabilitation and reintegration programs. His tenure in the Northeast earned him praise for combining firmness on the battlefield with compassion for displaced civilians.
Earlier in his career, Major General Shuaibu served as the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 7 Division, based at the Maimalari Cantonment in Maiduguri. As the 11th GOC of the division, he played a central role in strengthening military operations against insurgents in the region.
His time in command was marked by significant victories, including the successful clearance of terrorist hideouts and the improvement of troop morale through effective leadership and welfare initiatives. After an impactful 14-month tenure, he was redeployed to Abuja to serve with the Defence Space Agency, where his strategic insights and experience contributed to strengthening Nigeria’s defense technology initiatives.
Not many know the full story of the new army chief’s military journey, which began decades ago at the prestigious Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA). A proud member of the 41st Regular Combatant Course, Shuaibu belongs to an elite generation of officers who have shaped modern military strategy in Nigeria. He was commissioned into the Nigerian Army Armour Corps, where he specialized in mechanized warfare and armoured tactics — skills that would later define his leadership style. His deep understanding of field operations and defense planning has made him one of the Army’s most respected commanders.
Major General Shuaibu has held several key leadership and instructional positions throughout his service. He once served as the Director of Training at the Army Headquarters Department of Training in Abuja, where he oversaw the professional development of officers and the modernization of military curricula. Before that, he commanded the 21 Special Armour Brigade in Bama, a unit that played a crucial role in Nigeria’s ongoing fight against insurgency. His hands-on approach and emphasis on discipline helped the brigade achieve numerous tactical successes, making him one of the Army’s most effective field commanders.
His commitment to international cooperation and defense strategy also stands out. Shuaibu was a member of the College of International Security Affairs (CISA), a globally recognized institution that focuses on counterterrorism and strategic leadership. It was after this advanced training that he was promoted to the rank of Brigadier General, a milestone that acknowledged both his intellectual depth and his battlefield experience. He later served as a Principal Staff Officer at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja, where he contributed to high-level policy formulation and inter-agency coordination on national security matters.
In 2024, Major General Shuaibu’s leadership excellence was recognized beyond Nigeria’s borders when he received the Security Watch Award for the Most Outstanding Defence Command in Africa. The award highlighted his effectiveness in command, his innovative approach to counterinsurgency, and his commitment to maintaining professionalism within the ranks.
Air Vice Marshal S.K. Aneke
Chief of Air Staff
Air Vice Marshal S.K. Aneke was born on February 20, 1972, in Makurdi, Benue State, but hails originally from Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State. From his early years, he showed discipline, curiosity, and an eagerness to excel traits that would later define his distinguished career in the Nigerian Air Force (NAF).
He began his foundational education at the Army Children School, New Cantonment ‘A’ in Kaduna, where he studied between 1976 and 1982. Afterward, he attended the Government College, Kaduna, one of the region’s most respected secondary schools, and completed his West African School Certificate in 1987. His early education laid the groundwork for what would become a lifelong pursuit of excellence in both academics and military service.
In 1988, Aneke was admitted into the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) in Kaduna as a member of the 40th Regular Course, beginning his formal military training and leadership development. After years of rigorous physical, academic, and tactical training, he was commissioned as a Pilot Officer in the Nigerian Air Force on September 10, 1993.
His commissioning marked the start of an illustrious career defined by integrity, professionalism, and service to the nation. His classmates and instructors at the NDA often described him as “a disciplined and brilliant cadet who combined intellect with humility.” Over the years, these qualities have remained consistent hallmarks of his leadership style.
Air Vice Marshal Aneke is not only an accomplished officer but also a scholar-soldier with an impressive academic background that reflects his deep interest in both science and strategic policy. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics, demonstrating his early inclination toward analytical thinking and precision qualities essential for aviation.
He went on to earn a Post Graduate Diploma in Management from the University of Calabar, equipping him with organizational and administrative skills. His academic journey continued with a Master’s degree in International Affairs and Diplomacy from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and another Master’s in Political Economy and Developmental Studies from the University of Abuja.
Further solidifying his credentials as a strategic thinker, Aneke earned a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies from the prestigious U.S. Air War College, Air University, Montgomery, Alabama. This international exposure broadened his perspective on global defense systems, diplomacy, and air power strategy.
Throughout his distinguished career, Air Vice Marshal Aneke has held a series of key command and staff positions across various units of the Nigerian Air Force. His postings reflect a balance of technical expertise, administrative acumen, and operational leadership. He began as Admin Officer at the Aircraft Overhaul Centre within the Aircraft Maintenance Depot, Ikeja, before serving as Logistics Officer at the 301 Flying Training School, Kaduna. His leadership qualities soon earned him higher responsibilities, and he was appointed Commanding Officer, Base Services Wing, at the Air Maritime Group in Benin, where he played a crucial role in enhancing base operations and logistical efficiency.
Aneke’s rise through the ranks continued as he took on more complex assignments. He served as Commander of the 307 Executive Airlift Group in Abuja, overseeing high-level airlift operations critical to national and presidential logistics. His time as Director of Safety at the Nigerian Air Force Headquarters highlighted his commitment to maintaining strict operational safety standards.
Later, he served as Deputy Director of Operations at the Headquarters, where he contributed to mission planning, coordination, and execution of strategic air operations. His most recent command before becoming Chief of Air Staff was as Air Officer Commanding, Mobility Command, based in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, where he oversaw transport and logistics operations vital to the Air Force’s mobility and humanitarian missions across Nigeria.
His service has also extended beyond national borders. Air Vice Marshal Aneke served with the United Nations Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUC), gaining firsthand experience in international peacekeeping and conflict resolution. This exposure deepened his understanding of multilateral defense operations and reinforced Nigeria’s reputation as a strong contributor to global peace efforts. His colleagues during the mission described him as “a dependable officer with exceptional leadership and coordination skills.”
As a highly skilled pilot, Air Vice Marshal Aneke has logged over 4,300 flying hours on a variety of aircraft, including the Air Beetle 18, Dornier-228, Citation-500, Falcon-900, Gulfstream V/550, and Hawker-4000. His extensive flight experience not only showcases his technical mastery but also reflects his deep commitment to excellence and safety in aviation. Throughout his years of service, he has trained, mentored, and inspired countless younger pilots, emphasizing precision, discipline, and patriotism as the pillars of successful military aviation.
Beyond his professional achievements, Air Vice Marshal Aneke is a devoted family man. He is married to Mrs. Ngozi Enderline Aneke, and together they are blessed with three sons – Chukwuebuka, Ifeanyichukwu, and Uchechukwu.
Rear Admiral I. Abbas
Chief of Naval Staff
Rear Admiral Idi Abbas, born on September 10, 1969, in Nassarawa Local Government Area of Kano State, is a distinguished officer whose military journey reflects years of dedication, discipline, and excellence. His early education began at Gwagwarwa Primary School, Kano, followed by Airforce Military School in Jos, where he built a strong foundation in both academics and military discipline between 1981 and 1986.
His exceptional performance earned him admission into the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Kaduna, as a member of the 40th Regular Course in 1987, and he was commissioned as a Sub-Lieutenant in the Nigerian Navy in 1993 after earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry. This marked the beginning of a remarkable career that would span over three decades of service to his nation.
Throughout his years of training, Rear Admiral Abbas built a solid reputation as an Above Water Warfare (AWW) specialist, mastering the technical and operational aspects of naval combat and strategy. He attended numerous professional courses both within and outside Nigeria, reflecting his commitment to continuous learning and professional development.
Among these were the Sub-Lieutenant Technical Course at NNS QUORRA in 1994, and the Junior and Senior Staff Courses at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji, in 2001 and 2005 respectively. He also took part in the Officers’ Long Course (OLC XII) at NNS QUORRA, Lagos, where he specialized in Above Water Warfare. His international exposure includes attending the United Nations Military Observer Course in Tanzania in 2009 and graduating from the National Defence College (NDC), Abuja, in 2014 as a member of Course 23 — one of the most prestigious defense training programs in the country.
In the course of his illustrious naval career, Rear Admiral Abbas held several strategic command and staff appointments that showcased his leadership and operational expertise. After his commissioning in 1993, he served as a Watch-Keeping Officer aboard various Nigerian Navy ships, including NNS ARADU, NNS DAMISA, and NNS AYAM.
These early years at sea equipped him with deep practical experience in naval operations. By 1998, he became the Naval Assistant to the Deputy Commandant at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji. Between 1999 and 2002, he participated in mandatory courses and continued to serve intermittently on board NNS DAMISA. His administrative and operational acumen saw him appointed as Staff Officer III, Marine Services, at Naval Headquarters in 2004, and later as Gunnery Officer aboard NNS OHUE in 2006.
His leadership qualities were further recognized when he became an instructor at NNS QUORRA in 2007, mentoring a new generation of naval officers. In 2008, he was appointed Commanding Officer of the Burma Battalion at the Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna, where he played a vital role in shaping the leadership and character of young cadets.
Over the years, Abbas held critical command positions including Base Administrative Officer at NNS PATHFINDER, Port Harcourt, and Naval Contingent Commander for the Joint Task Force Operation SAFE HAVEN between 2010 and 2012. His strategic brilliance also shone through as the Maritime Guard Commander at NIMASA in 2015, and as Commander Task Group (CTG) of the Nigerian Navy’s Operation Tsare-Teku in 2017 — a mission aimed at combating piracy and illegal activities in Nigerian waters.
Between 2018 and 2022, Rear Admiral Abbas continued to rise through the ranks, serving as Command Administrative Officer (CAO) and later Chief Staff Officer (CSO) in the Central Naval Command (CNC), before eventually becoming the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) of the same command.
During this period, he also commanded NNS VICTORY in Calabar, where his leadership ensured stability and effectiveness in operations. His steady career progression reflects a mix of operational excellence, administrative discipline, and professional integrity qualities that have consistently defined his service record.
By July 2023, his expertise earned him the appointment of Chief of Naval Safety and Standards (CNASS) at the Naval Headquarters, where he ensured compliance with operational and safety protocols across naval formations. In February 2024, he was elevated to Chief of Defence Civil-Military Relations (CDCMR) at the Defence Headquarters, where he strengthened cooperation between the military and civilian institutions.
In January 2025, just before his elevation to Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Rear Admiral Abbas was deployed to the Nigerian Army Heritage Centre as a Senior Research Fellow — a role that reflected his intellectual depth and strategic insight.
His rise through the ranks of the Nigerian Navy was steady and well-earned. He was promoted to Lieutenant in 1996, Lieutenant Commander in 2001, and Commander in 2006. His dedication and performance led to his promotion as Navy Captain in 2011, Commodore in 2016, and Rear Admiral in September 2020. Each promotion marked another milestone in a career built on professionalism, courage, and an unrelenting commitment to duty.
Over the years, Rear Admiral Abbas has received numerous awards and honors that highlight his exceptional service to the nation. These include the Passed Staff Course (psc), Fellow of Defence College (fdc), Forces Service Star (fss), Meritorious Service Star (mss), Distinguished Service Star (dss), Grand Service Star (gss), and Defence General Staff Medal (DGSM). These accolades not only recognize his personal achievements but also his contributions to strengthening the Nigerian Navy and the country’s defense system.
Beyond his military accomplishments, Rear Admiral Abbas is a respected member of several professional bodies, including the Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM) and the International Institute of Professional Security (IIPS). His professionalism, humility, and devotion to service have earned him admiration from peers and subordinates alike.
Rear Admiral Idi Abbas is not only a committed naval officer but also a devoted family man. He is a practising Muslim, happily married to Mrs. Aisha Abbas, and their union is blessed with two sons. His life and career represent the true spirit of military excellence discipline, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to national service.