President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved significant changes in the leadership of Nigeria’s Armed Forces as part of renewed efforts to strengthen the country’s national security architecture.
In a statement issued on Thursday, October 24, 2025, by his Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, the President announced the appointment of new Service Chiefs, marking a strategic shift in military command aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and coordination within the defence sector.
According to the statement, General Olufemi Oluyede has been appointed the new Chief of Defence Staff, succeeding General Christopher Musa. Major-General W. Shaibu becomes the new Chief of Army Staff, while Air Vice Marshal S.K. Aneke takes over as Chief of Air Staff. Rear Admiral I. Abbas assumes office as the Chief of Naval Staff.
The Chief of Defence Intelligence, Major-General E.A.P. Undiendeye, retains his position.
President Tinubu commended the outgoing Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and other former Service Chiefs for their patriotic service and dedicated leadership during their tenure.
He charged the newly appointed military leaders to justify the confidence reposed in them by demonstrating professionalism, vigilance, and comradeship — values that, according to the President, define the ethos of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
“All appointments take immediate effect,” the statement concluded.
