- Oluyede was appointed to the role on Wednesday, stepping in for Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, who is on medical leave
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has described the recent appointment of an acting Chief of Army Staff as unprecedented in the history of Nigeria’s Armed Forces.
His comments came on Friday following the appointment of Major General Olufemi Oluyede as the acting Chief of Army Staff by President Bola Tinubu.
Oluyede was appointed to the role on Wednesday, stepping in for Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, who is on medical leave.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, General Musa emphasised that Oluyede would have full authority to lead the Nigerian Army until further notice from the President.
“This is something new, something that has never happened in the history of the Armed Forces of Nigeria,” Musa remarked, noting the significance of the decision.
Musa called on senior military officials to put aside any concerns and rally behind Oluyede. He stressed that unity within the Army’s leadership is crucial for ensuring national security during this transitional period.
“It is important that we all support the acting Chief of Army Staff to ensure his success,” Musa said. “Whatever issues or opinions we may have, the survival of Nigeria and the Armed Forces must take precedence.”
In response, Major General Oluyede acknowledged the unusual nature of his appointment, saying, “This is not the usual system, but given the unusual situation, we must handle it accordingly.”
The acting Chief of Army Staff’s tenure is expected to continue until Lieutenant General Lagbaja’s return from medical leave, with no further details provided on the timeline.
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