OLUYEDE ASSUMES OFFICE AS 19TH CHIEF OF DEFENCE STAFF
The immediate past Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, on Thursday, assumed duty as the 19th Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), following the confirmation of his appointment by the National Assembly, along with other service chiefs.
Speaking at the brief handing and taking over ceremony at the Defence Headquarters (DHQ), Abuja, Gen. Oluyede reaffirmed his total commitment to the defence and security of the nation from insurgent activities.
Gen. Oluyede acknowledged the nature of threats confronting the nation, ranging from terrorism, insurgency, and banditry to emerging cyber, aerial, and maritime security challenges, which require the military to be ever vigilant, innovative, and united.
According to him, “My leadership will therefore be guided by the principles of professionalism, jointness, discipline, innovation, and accountability. We shall build on the achievements of my predecessor by strengthening synergy among the services and defence agencies.
“We shall also enhance intelligence-driven operations and deepen collaboration with other security and law enforcement agencies. Our objective, which is to restore and sustain peace, stability, and national cohesion in every part of our dear country, remains uncontestable.”
Gen. Oluyede, while promising to sustain the ongoing fight against terrorism, banditry, and other forms of criminality in the country, expressed optimism that whatever challenges the nation is currently facing, success will be achieved.
According to him, “We will prevail as a nation. It is a battle that must be fought on multiple fronts, and crucial among them is the battle space of public trust, information, and national morale.”
The CDS added that, apart from welfare for officers and men, he would prioritise capacity building, research, and technological innovation to enhance operational efficiency and strategic foresight.
According to him, “In doing so, we shall leverage the resources and intellect available across our defence institutions, as well as partnerships with local and international stakeholders. To our gallant soldiers, ratings, airmen, and airwomen, you remain the pride and backbone of our armed forces.”
Gen. Oluyede expressed gratitude to Almighty God for the opportunity given to him to serve the nation as CDS, while thanking the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, “for considering me worthy to take charge of the affairs of the Armed Forces of Nigeria after transiting from command of the Nigerian Army.”
Earlier, the outgoing CDS, Gen. Christopher Musa, said his tenure was challenging but incredibly rewarding.
According to him, “We faced a complex and dynamic security landscape, but we confronted it with unwavering resolve, guided by our constitutional mandate and a shared vision for a secure and prosperous Nigeria. We pursued a philosophy of jointness, people-centricity, inter-agency cooperation, and kinetic synergy.
“Under my watch, we worked tirelessly to deepen the integration of our Army, Navy, and Air Force. The establishment of Joint Task Forces across our theatres of operation stands as a testament to our commitment to a unified approach,” Musa said.
Gen. Musa lauded the role played by the media during his tenure, describing it as an invaluable ally of the military and a vital bridge between the front lines and the public—standing tall for the realities on the ground against the propaganda of the enemies, and carrying the stories of the troops’ courage, resilience, and sacrifice in the face of immense adversity.
According to him, “You have chronicled not just the challenges, but also the significant gains—the liberated communities, the rescued hostages, and the restored hope.
“There might be mistakes, but they were never deliberate. And they are mistakes because we are human. By bringing these narratives to light, you have helped the nation understand and appreciate the immense burden our soldiers bear.”
The former CDS paid special tribute to the fallen heroes, describing them as brave souls who paid the ultimate price in service to the fatherland. “We must never forget their sacrifice. Our thoughts and prayers also go to our wounded colleagues and their families.”
He also urged the new service chiefs, officers, and personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) in general to cooperate with the new CDS, Gen. Oluyede, in the national interest.
