President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a major shake-up of Nigeria’s military hierarchy, appointing new Service Chiefs in what the Presidency describes as a move to strengthen the nation’s security architecture. The announcement, made on October 24, 2025, follows weeks of heightened security tension and speculation over an alleged coup plot.
In a statement released by the State House and signed by Special Adviser Sunday Dare, General Olufemi Oluyede was named the new Chief of Defence Staff, replacing General Christopher Musa. Other appointments include Major-General W. Shaibu as Chief of Army Staff, Air Vice Marshal S.K. Aneke as Chief of Air Staff, and Rear Admiral I. Abbas as Chief of Naval Staff. Major-General E.A.P. Undiendeye retained his position as Chief of Defence Intelligence.
The President, while commending the outgoing Service Chiefs for their service, urged the new military heads to focus on professionalism, unity, and operational efficiency. He emphasised the need for synergy among the Armed Forces to tackle persistent national threats such as insurgency in the Northeast, banditry in the Northwest, and oil theft in the Niger Delta.
The timing of the reshuffle, coming shortly after the arrest of 20 soldiers including a Brigadier-General over an alleged coup plot, has intensified public discussion. Many analysts interpret the move as a preemptive step to consolidate stability within the Armed Forces and ensure loyalty to constitutional authority.
This development marks one of the most significant military reorganisations under Tinubu’s administration. While the government portrays it as a decisive step toward restoring national security and public confidence, the true test will lie in the new chiefs’ ability to deliver measurable progress in curbing violence and ensuring stability across the country.
