“It Has Never Happened in Nigeria” – Chief of Defence Staff Responds on Appointment of Acting COAS

During the handover ceremony for Major General Olufemi Oluyede today, Friday, November 1, 2024, Punch reported that General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), stressed the historic significance of choosing an acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS).CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>

This unprecedented move follows President Bola Tinubu’s decision to appoint Oluyede as acting COAS while the substantive Chief, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, is on medical leave.

Musa pointed out that this situation is a first in the history of the Armed Forces of Nigeria. “I’m not sure where we are, but the event today is something that is new, that has never happened in the history of the Armed Forces of Nigeria,” he stated. He assured that Oluyede has been granted full authority to lead the Army until further notice from the President.

The appointment comes in the wake of the Defence Headquarters’ earlier statement that the position of an acting COAS was not outlined in the Harmonised Armed Forces Act. Despite this, Musa urged the senior officers of the Nigerian Army to set aside any reservations regarding Oluyede’s leadership. He stressed the need for unity and collaboration among the top brass, asserting that the primary focus should be on national security.

“It is important that we all understand this clearly and give the acting Chief of Army Staff all the support to ensure he is successful,” Musa said. He highlighted the need for the Armed Forces to remain cohesive, stating, “Whatever issues we may have in mind, we must prioritize that Nigeria must survive.”

In his acceptance remarks, Oluyede acknowledged the unusual circumstances prompting this appointment. He pledged his loyalty to the President and committed to ensuring a seamless continuation of operations while Lieutenant General Lagbaja receives the necessary medical care.CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>