President Bola Tinubu on Thursday formally inaugurated Nigeria’s new military leadership, swearing in the Chief of Defence Staff and heads of the Army, Navy, and Air Force during a ceremony at the State House in Abuja.
The event followed the Senate’s confirmation of their appointments on Wednesday, marking a significant reshuffle in the nation’s security architecture.
In a brief but symbolic ceremony held at the Council Chambers, the newly appointed officers were decorated with their elevated ranks, reflecting their new command responsibilities.
Those honoured include: General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede, formerly Lieutenant General, now Chief of Defence Staff; Lieutenant General Emmanuel Undiendeye, promoted from Major General, now Chief of Defence Intelligence; lLieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, formerly Major General, now Chief of Army Staff; Air Marshal Kevin Aneke, elevated from Air Vice Marsha, now Chief of Air Staff and Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, promoted from Rear Admiral, now Chief of Naval Staff.
The appointments, announced last Friday, are part of President Tinubu’s broader strategy to recalibrate Nigeria’s defence posture and enhance operational effectiveness across the armed forces.
In a message shared via his verified X account (@PBAT), the President urged the new military leaders to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and unity. “Deepen professionalism, vigilance, and unity within our Armed Forces as they serve our nation with honour,” he wrote.
The reshuffle is widely seen as a move to inject fresh energy into Nigeria’s security leadership amid ongoing efforts to tackle complex national and regional threats.
