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Tag: Olufemi Oluyede

  • CDS reaffirms military’s commitment to human security

    CDS reaffirms military’s commitment to human security

    The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has reaffirmed the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s (AFN) commitment to a people-centred, ethically grounded and professionally accountable military, stressing that modern security operations must prioritise the protection of civilians and human dignity.

    Gen. Oluyede stated this at the opening of the Human Security and Gender Advisers Course yesterday at the Nigerian Army Resource Centre, Asokoro, Abuja, where he was represented by the Chief of Defence Standards and Evaluation, Maj.-Gen Ibrahim Lassa.

    He said Nigeria’s security environment has become increasingly complex, marked by asymmetric warfare, violent extremism, communal conflicts, transnational crimes and humanitarian emergencies that directly affect civilian populations. According to him, these challenges require a shift from a purely territorial defence approach to one focused on human security.

    The Defence Chief noted that the AFN is being repositioned as a force that is not only capable but also responsive to socio-cultural realities in its areas of operation, with the protection of lives, preservation of human dignity and strengthening of societal resilience now central to military effectiveness.

    Gen. Oluyede said the course aligns with his strategic focus on strengthening AFN capacities through enhanced joint operations, improved welfare, sound administration and a reinforced operational posture, within a whole-of-government framework to safeguard Nigeria’s sovereignty and prosperity.

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    He emphasised that preventive action, collaboration with civilian institutions and the protection of civilians are now integral to military success, describing human security and gender advisory roles as force multipliers that enhance legitimacy, expand operational reach and support mission sustainability.

    The CDS commended the British Defence Staff for their continued support, describing the partnership as a reflection of enduring defence cooperation between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, based on shared values and people-oriented security approaches.

    He urged participants to apply the knowledge gained to operational planning, deployments and engagement with civilian communities.

    Earlier, the Chief of Defence Civil-Military Relations, Rear Admiral Saburi Lawal, said the course was designed to strengthen professional competence across Nigeria’s security institutions. He said participants were selected to serve in advisory roles within the AFN, the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.

    Rear Admiral Lawal expressed confidence that the training would improve professionalism, enhance civil-military cooperation and build public trust in security agencies, urging participants to approach the programme with dedication and professionalism.

    He added that the AFN would continue to collaborate with partners to strengthen capacity building and professional development.a

  • CDS to troops: Nigeria is grateful to you

    CDS to troops: Nigeria is grateful to you

    The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, has said the nation owes the troops on the frontline an immeasurable debt of gratitude.

    The CDs said Nigerians are grateful to the troops for remaining vigilant and confronting diverse threats to the nation’s collective peace and security, while the citizens enjoy Christmas with their loved ones.

    Oluyede said this in a special tribute he sent yesterday to frontline troops on today’s Christmas celebration.

    He said: “I pay a special tribute to our gallant frontline troops who, even during this sacred season, remain deployed across various theatres of operation in the defence of our nation.

    “Your courage, discipline, professionalism, and selfless service, often at great personal sacrifice, epitomise the finest traditions of the Armed Forces of Nigeria. You remain vigilant, confronting diverse threats to our collective peace and security, while others enjoy Christmas with their loved ones. For this, the nation owes you an immeasurable debt of gratitude.”

    In the personal statement, the CDS thanked fellow citizens for their resilience, patriotism, and continued support for the military, despite the multifaceted security challenges confronting the nation.

    He noted that Christmas is a season that embodies love, sacrifice, hope, and renewal, offering the people a solemn opportunity to reflect on “our shared humanity, our collective responsibilities as a nation as well as our unwavering commitment to peace, unity and national progress”.

    Oluyede stressed that the citizens’ steadfast belief in the Nigerian project is a vital source of strength and motivation for the troops.

    The CDS said trust, cooperation and synergy between the military and the citizenry are indispensable to the attainment of sustainable peace and security across the country.

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    He added that the military would continue to remain resolute in its constitutional mandate to defend Nigeria’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and democratic institutions.

    Oluyede reassured the personnel of the Armed Forces that their welfare remains a top priority and main focus under his leadership.

    “We are firmly committed to improving the living and working conditions of our personnel and their families through enhanced welfare packages, improved healthcare delivery, better accommodation, timely payment of allowances and sustained support for the families of our fallen heroes,” he said.

    The CDS urged Nigerians to use the festive period to promote peace, tolerance and unity across ethnic, religious and cultural lines.

    He added: “Our diversity remains our strength and our collective resolve is the foundation upon which a secure, stable and prosperous Nigeria will be built.

    “As we celebrate this season of goodwill, I urge all members of the Armed Forces to reflect on the teachings of Christ, which express peace, love, forgiveness, selflessness and purposeful service.”

    The CDS urged members of the Armed Forces to remain disciplined, professional and loyal to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

    “We must also continue to uphold the values of honour, integrity and service to the nation,” he said.

    Oluyede thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support for the Armed Forces.

    “To our sister security agencies, I call for sustained collaboration, synergy and unity of effort in our collective quest to safeguard our dear nation,” the CDS said.

  • CDS splashes N10million on football tournament winners in Rivers

    CDS splashes N10million on football tournament winners in Rivers

    The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has splashed N10m on winners of the maiden edition of the under 15 Boy’s football tournament hosted at the Sharks stadium, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

    The Imo Military team, which emerged champions of the tournament after the Edo State team, received N5m, while the 1st runners-up earned N3m and the Akwa Ibom state team, which finished as second runners-up, received N2m.

    Speaking at the closing ceremony on Saturday, Oluyede said the tournament brought together teams from South-South states, Abia and Imo states, to foster unity, cooperation, and brotherhood among youths.

    The CDS, who was represented by Rear Admiral Gideon Kachim, noted that insecurity and the rising abuse of banned substances among young people remained a serious national challenge, stressing the need for early intervention through constructive engagement with sports.

    He said the competition aligned with his military strategic philosophy aimed at strengthening the Armed Forces of Nigeria through enhanced and improved welfare and sound administration, while contributing to national development under a whole-of-government approach.

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    Oluyede said the weeklong tournament showcased not only football skills, but also discipline, resilience, respect, and teamwork, describing sports as a vital tool for character development among youths.

    He commended all participating teams, organisers, officials, coaches, and parents for their commitment, adding that beyond trophies, the players gained valuable life lessons and experiences that would shape their future

    He said, “Some of the challenges facing our nation today include insecurity and increased use of banned substances that affect the youth, which must not be ignored.

    “It is in the light of this, that I have committed myself to empowering the youths to meaningfully contribute to the development of our dear country Nigeria in line with my Military Strategic Philosophy for the Armed Forces of Nigeria which is to consolidate the capabilities of the Armed Forces of Nigeria through enhanced jointness for a reinforced operational posture, supported improved welfare efforts and sound administration aimed at ensuring the Armed Forces maintain its core military fundamentals of guaranteeing Nigeria’s sovereignty and prosperity under a whole of government approach”.

    Oluyede urged the participants to imbibe the lessons from the tournament, stressing that unity, discipline, and determination are essential to success.

    He commended the Rivers State Government for co-sponsoring and hosting the event, as well as all individuals and organisations that contributed to its success, including the participants.

    Oluyede reaffirmed the commitment of the Armed Forces to initiatives that empower youths, strengthen communities, and foster national development.

    He said, “On behalf of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, I appreciate the Rivers State Government that co-sponsored and played host for the event, as well as others that contributed in one way or another.

    “I also congratulate every participant and assure you that we will continue to support initiatives that empower our youths, strengthen our communities, and build a Nigeria we can all be proud of.”

    Declaring the event closed, Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Sports, Emmanuel Ndah, welcomed the young footballers, their coaches, parents, and supporters from across the country to the state.

    Fubara described the championship as a significant grassroots football initiative that underscored a collective commitment to grooming disciplined, talented, and focused Nigerian youths.

    According to the governor, the tournament was more than a sporting event, but a celebration of unity, teamwork, and the immense potential of young Nigerians.

    He said, “Today’s event represents much more than football. It is a celebration of unity, teamwork, and the potential of our young people.

    “At a time when our nation faces various social and security challenges, sports serve as a powerful non-kinetic tool to engage the youths positively, build character, and instill values that help shape responsible and patriotic citizens.

    “Competitions like this teach discipline, resilience, fair play, and respect, attributes that are essential for personal growth and national development.”

    He commended the Armed Forces of Nigeria for recognising the importance of physical fitness, mental alertness, and emotional stability in nation-building, and for sustaining its role in youth development through sports, mentorship, and education.

    Fubara noted that the championship had provided a platform for young footballers to showcase their talents while learning essential life skills that would shape their future.

    The governor reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring a safe, peaceful, and prosperous nation, stressing that efforts to tackle insecurity would continue to create an enabling environment for young Nigerians to grow, learn, and achieve their aspirations.

    He expressed appreciation to the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, for his vision, dedication, and unwavering support for youth development and grassroots sports.

    He said, “As we draw this championship to a close today, let us strive to reflect the values of equality, unity, and excellence in our daily actions. We must continue to support our youth, as they form the bedrock of our current society and the leaders of tomorrow. In this context,

    “I wish to extend my sincere congratulations to all participants, the winners, the organizers, and everyone whose contributions have played a vital role in the success of this exceptional competition.”

  • CDS to youths: use sports to build a safer, prosperous nation

    CDS to youths: use sports to build a safer, prosperous nation

    •Army wives donate medical equipment to military hospital

    The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has urged youths to harness sports as a tool for national unity, security and growth.

    Oluyede made the call at the opening of the maiden CDS Under-15 Boys Football Championship at the Sharks Football Club Stadium, Port Harcourt, Rivers State on Monday.

    Gen Oluyede, who was represented by the Chief of Administration, Defence Headquarters, Rear Admiral Gideon Kachim, said the championship was designed to unite communities, promote healthy competition and develop values such as teamwork, discipline and resilience among youths.

     According to him, the initiative also aims to strengthen civil-military relations by engaging young people positively and discouraging youth restiveness and social vices.

    The six-day tournament featured teams from Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, Abia and Imo states, as well as the Rivers Military Team.

    Earlier, the Director of Sports, Defence Headquarters, Air Vice Marshal Babatunde Phillips, said the championship was aimed at identifying young talents, fostering unity and addressing challenges such as insecurity and drug abuse through sports.

    The opening match saw the Rivers Military Team defeat the Delta Military Team 2–0. The tournament will end on December 20.

    Meanwhile, the President, Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), Mrs Safiyyah Hassan Shaibu, has inaugurated life-saving medical equipment donated to the Accident and Emergency Ward of the Military Hospital, Ikoyi, Lagos.

    The donation, which included oxygen concentrators, patient monitors, suctioning machines, an autoclave sterilising unit and an automated external defibrillator, also covered the renovation of the ward as part of activities marking the Chief of Army Staff Annual Conference.

    The Chief Medical Director of the hospital, Brig.-General Ebute, commended NAOWA for the intervention, saying the equipment would improve emergency response and patient care. He added that the hospital, which accommodates about 10 emergency patients, requires expansion to meet growing demand.

  • Lagbaja was selfless, prioritised troops’ welfare, says CDC

    Lagbaja was selfless, prioritised troops’ welfare, says CDC

    • Osun community urges Fed Govt to immortalise ex-COAS

    The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, has said the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, was a courageous soldier and a man of faith who championed troops’ welfare.

    Oluyede said this during the first remembrance church service held in honour of the late COAS yesterday in Abuja.

    The CDS described the late Lagbaja as an exemplary professional soldier and a devout Christian whose faith guided his conduct.

    He noted that Lagbaja’s courage, empathy, and generosity reflected his deep faith and strong sense of justice.

    Oluyede said: “Before this time last year, we were all mourning this great man. But today, we are here to celebrate him, a soldier’s soldier, a true soldier of Christ and a friend to many. “His life teaches us to ask ourselves what we will be remembered for — for greed or for goodness, for selfishness or for service.”

    The CDS said he was confident that the late army chief was resting peacefully in heaven, adding that his legacy of dedication and compassion would continue to inspire those he left behind.

    “I pray that God will never forsake his family. As for me, I will stand by them for as long as I live,” he said.

    Oluyede commended the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Wahidi Shaibu, for honouring the memory of his predecessor and the clergy for their inspiring message, while thanking all who attended the memorial.

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    Reading from the book of 2 Timothy 2:1-4 his sermon, titled: A Good Soldier of Jesus Christ, the Acting Director of Chaplaincy Services (Protestant) of the Nigerian Army, Lt.-Col. Bitrus Nyam, said the late COAS represented Christ and was also a good father who nurtured his children and wanted to see them become better than him.

    Nyam said the late Lt.-Gen. Lagbaja fulfilled four exemplary demands as contained in the scripture. These, the cleric said, included being strong in the grace of Christ Jesus.

    “The late Lagbaja was not a distracted soldier but an exemplary one who remained focused till the end,” he said.

    The church service was attended by two former Chiefs of Defence Staff, Gen. Lucky Irabor and Gen. Christopher Musa with their wives; Oluyede’s wife, who is the President of the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA); the widow of the late Lt.-Gen. Lagbaja, Mrs. Mariya, accompanied by Mrs. Safiyah Shaibu, wife of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), and President of Nigerian Army Officers Wives Association (NAOWA), and other serving and retired officers.

    Also, Ilobu community, the headquarters of Irepodun Local Government Area of Osun State, has begged the Federal Government to immortalise the late Lagbaja.

    The community, which suspended its yearly anniversary in 2024 to mourn the demise of Lagbaja, announced this uear’s anniversary through the President of Ilobu-Asake Development Union (IADU), Pastor Olufemi Salako.

    Speaking about the late Lagbaja, Pastor Salako said: “If you come into our town today, there is nothing to show that we have produced a son like Lagbaja. It is unfortunate that there is nothing to show visitors that our town produced such a prominent figure.

    “We need to show him to the world that he has done extraordinarily well for that state and the country at large, so we want him to be immortalised.”

    Salako added: “We are still engaging the Federal Government and the Army to come and do something for us. Although before Lagbaja’s death, the Nigerian Army community built a modern hospital for us, which is not named after him. The federal government and the Army should immortalise our son in his hometown.”

    The community wooed investors into the community after a communal conflict in which property estimated at over N2 billion was destroyed.

    The community urged Governor Ademola Adeleke to provide succour to the residents of Ifon, Ilobu, and Erin, who were the most affected during the deadly clash.

    Salako said: “While we believe that the era of commotions has gone, the scars are still there. Over N2 billion properties destroyed remain in ruins. We call on Governor Ademola Adeleke to help us in providing succour to those seriously affected by the crisis, most especially this year’s crisis.

    “Businesses were devastated, and many are yet to recover. Many families became homeless due to the crisis.”

  • FULL PROFILE: Meet Chief of Defence Staff, Lt. General Olufemi Oluyede

    FULL PROFILE: Meet Chief of Defence Staff, Lt. General Olufemi Oluyede

    President Bola Tinubu has appointed General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede as the new Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), succeeding General Christopher Musa.

     Oluyede only assumed office as the new Chief of Army Staff (COAS) last year after the death of General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja.

    The outgoing chiefs, including General Musa, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla and Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar had been in office since June 2023, overseeing several major operations against Boko Haram, ISWAP, and armed bandits in the north-east and north-west.

    The new defence team, led by General Oluyede, is expected to work in synergy to enhance professionalism, vigilance and unity across the Armed Forces.

    He was born in 1968 and hails from Ikere in Ekiti State. 

    General Oluyede’s career spans nearly four decades of military service. 

    A member of the 39th Regular Course of the Nigerian Defence Academy, he was commissioned as a second-lieutenant in 1992 (retroactive to 1987).

    Over the years, Oluyede has held several command and staff positions, including Platoon Commander at 65 Battalion, Company Commander at 177 Guards Battalion, Staff Officer at the Guards Brigade, Commandant of the Amphibious Training School, and Commander of the 27 Task Force Brigade, where he oversaw counter-insurgency operations in the North East under Operation HADIN KAI.

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    He has also participated in international peacekeeping missions, notably with the ECOWAS Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) in Liberia and Operation HARMONY IV in Bakassi.

    His military education includes passing the prestigious Staff Course, and he is a member of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Nigeria’s highest policy think tank.

    Promoted to Major-General in September 2020, Oluyede’s distinguished service has earned him several honours, including the Corps Medal of Honour, Grand Service Star, Field Command Medal, Field Training Medal, and the Chief of Army Staff Commendation Award.

    Married with three children, General Oluyede is expected to coordinate the strategic operations of the Army, Navy and Air Force, a crucial task amid Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.

  • Effective media reportage enabler of our operational successes, says COAS

    Effective media reportage enabler of our operational successes, says COAS

    The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has said the synergy between the Nigerian Army and the media is not a matter of convenience.

    The Army chief called it a strategic imperative to shape public understanding, mobilise national support, and highlight sacrifices made by troops in defending the nation.

    Oluyede said this yesterday in Abuja while declaring open a three-day seminar with the theme: Enhancing Responsible Media Reportage of Nigerian Army Operations in a Joint and Multi-Agency Environment for Enhanced National Security. It was organised by the Directorate of Army Public Relations (DAPR) for DAPR officers, sister security agencies, and defence correspondents.

    The COAS said the carefully chosen theme underscored the vital role of accountability, balance, and responsibility in the reportage of military operations — particularly in a joint environment where collaboration among security agencies is indispensable.

    Represented by the Commander of the Nigerian Army Cyber Warfare Command, Maj.-Gen. Mohammed Abdullahi, the COAS noted that in an era where the battle for hearts and minds is as critical as the battle in the field, responsible media reportage has become a key enabler of operational success.

    He stressed that the perception of the Nigerian Army, as well as all security agencies, “is largely shaped by the narratives carried in the media space”.

    Oluyede noted that with the rise of digital technologies and artificial intelligence, the speed and reach of information — both genuine and false — have multiplied.

    According to him, fake news, manipulated images, and deepfakes now pose real threats to national cohesion and operational integrity.

    “Therefore, our collective task is not only to counter misinformation but to ensure that truth and verified facts dominate public discourse.

    “Through initiatives such as this seminar, we seek to build a shared framework for responsible, conflict-sensitive reporting — one that amplifies truth, promotes professionalism, and safeguards national interest. It is our collective duty to ensure that the stories of our men and women in uniform are told accurately, respectfully, and in a way that strengthens the bond between the Armed Forces and the people we serve.

    “To the participants, I urge you to make the best use of this platform. Learn, share experiences, and build the capacity to navigate today’s complex media environment. The lectures and discussions during this seminar have been carefully curated to address the evolving challenges of defence communication, crisis reporting, and information management,” Oluyede said.

    The COAS urged the participants to learn, share experiences, and build the capacity to navigate the complex media environment.

    He said the papers to be presented had been carefully curated to address the evolving challenges of defence communication, crisis reporting, and information management.

    The acting Director of the Nigerian Army Public Relations, Lt.-Col. Appolonia Anele, noted that in today’s dynamic security environment, the role of the media transcends reporting events, extending to shaping public perception, rallying national support, countering misinformation and influencing the outcome of military operations.

    She stressed that with the advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the rapid spread of information through digital platforms, narratives could be manipulated within seconds – fake news, doctored images, and deepfakes now posed as much threat as enemy propaganda on the battlefield.

    “This reality underscores why fact-checking, verification, and responsible journalism have become indispensable to both national security and public trust.

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    “No doubt, warfare is not fought solely with weapons but also in the information domain. Hybrid threats, disinformation campaigns and Artificial Intelligence-driven fake content are being weaponised to erode public confidence, discredit institutions and demoralise security forces.

    “To defeat these threats, we must counter falsehoods with verified facts, replace propaganda with truth, and ensure that the Nigerian public is accurately informed. This calls for professionalism, ethics and patriotism from all media stakeholders,” she said.

    Anele pledged the directorate’s commitment to ensuring access to timely, credible, and verifiable information that would enable responsible reportage while safeguarding national security interests.

    She added: “For participants at this seminar, our role is not only to inform but to ensure that narratives surrounding security operations are accurate, constructive and supportive of national security objectives. Together, we must ensure that our troops win not only the battles in the field but also the battles of perception and information in the public domain. We must encourage and appreciate the huge sacrifices of troops, their gallantry sacrifice must be reinforced by responsible media reportage that amplifies their achievements, counters false narratives and fosters unity among Nigerians.”

  • Army reassigns Generals to boost efficiency, strengthen leadership

    Army reassigns Generals to boost efficiency, strengthen leadership

    • COAS okays shake-up, approves new PSOs, GOCs, others

    The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has approved the redeployment of senior officers to key command, instructional, and staff positions across various formations and units.

    A statement yesterday by the acting Director of Army Public Relations (DAPR), Lt.-Col Onyinyechi Anele, announced the reassignments, which are meant to reposition the Nigerian Army for greater operational effectiveness.

    Anele said the redeployment affected few Principal Staff Officers (PSOs) at the Army Headquarters (AHQ), two General Officers Commanding (GOCs), Corps Commanders, Commandants of training institutions, and Brigade Commanders, among others, critical to the Army’s operational and administrative structure.

    She said Major-Generals A. A. Adeyinka and A. A. Adekeye were appointed as Chief of Logistics (Army) and Chief of Personnel Management, respectively; T. B. Ugiagbe as the Chief of Standard and Evaluation; A. A. Idris as the Chief of Military Intelligence, and M. O. Erebulu as the Army’s Provost Marshall.

    Others redeployed include the Commandant of the Nigerian Army School of Finance and Administration (NASFA), Maj.-Gen. Ehioze Osifo, to the Nigerian Army Finance Corporation as the Director General; Maj.-Gen. E. A. Anaryu from Defence Space Administration, now the Corps Commander, Supply and Transport, and Maj.-Gen. S. A. Akesode, formerly at the office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), moved to the African Union Verification Mission in Tigray Region, Ethiopia, as the Head of Mission.

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    “Senior officers appointed as General Officers Commanding (GOCs) are: Major General A. S. M. Wase from the Department of Training to the Headquarters of the 1 Division/Sector 1, Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA (OPFY) as the GOC 1 Division/Commander Sector 1. Maj.- Gen. C. R. Nnebeife is also appointed as the GOC 2 Division/ Sector 3 Joint Task Force OPFY.

    “Some of the senior officers appointed as Commandants of NA Training Institutions are: Maj.-Gen. M. O. Ihanuwaze from Nigerian Army Finance Insurance Corporation to Nigerian Army Finance School and Administration and appointed Commandant, Maj.-Gen. K. O. Osemwegie, now the commandant of the Army Signal School; Maj.-Gen. A. J. Aliyu was also appointed the Commandant of the Nigerian Army Ordinance School, while Maj.-Gen. A. C. Adetoba was posted from the  Department of Transformation and Innovation to the Nigerian Army College of Logistics and Management as the Commandant, amongst others.

    “Other senior officers also affected in the redeployment are: Brig.-Gen. M. Jimoh from HQ Operation FANSAN YAMMA to HQ 1 Brigade as the Commander, Brig.-Gen. N. E. Okoloagu from the Army War College Nigeria to 2 Brigade as the Commander, as well as Brig.-Gen. A. A. Bello from the Nigerian Army School of Infantry to 6 Division Garrison/Sector 3 JTF South South Operation DELTA SAFE as the Commander.

    “The Chief of Army Staff has charged the newly appointed senior officers to redouble their efforts and commitment to duty in ensuring the sustenance of the ongoing onslaught against terrorism, insurgency, and other threats to national security, as they assume their new appointments.

    “He also reiterates his commitment to the welfare of troops as paramount to operational successes,” the statement added.

  • Army seeks stronger ties with judiciary, others to fight terrorism

    Army seeks stronger ties with judiciary, others to fight terrorism

    The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has sought improved collaboration among the military, the judiciary, and other key stakeholders to tackle terrorism and dismantle terrorist networks.

    Oluyede spoke yesterday at a training workshop organised by the Nigerian Army School of Legal Services, Zaria, Kaduna State.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the three-day workshop had the theme: The Menace of Terrorism: A Multi-Stakeholder Approach to Fighting Terrorism in Nigeria.

    The COAS, who was the special guest of honour, was represented by the Commandant of Depot Nigerian Army, Zaria, Maj.-Gen. Ahmadu-Bello Mohammed.

    He noted that the complexity and adaptability of terrorist threats demand a holistic and collaborative approach, hence the need for improved cooperation among all stakeholders.

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    “It is only through a robust cooperation, information-sharing and respect for the rule of law that we can effectively dismantle terrorist networks and address the root causes of extremism,” Oluyede said.

    The COAS said the workshop, which brought together mid-career and junior officers from different formations, was meant to acquaint the participants with legal requirements needed to fight terrorism.

    He added that the focus of the workshop was to deliberate on terrorism, which remains a significant threat to the peace, stability, and development of Nigeria.

    The Chief of Training (Army), Maj.-Gen. A. Ndalolo, who was represented by the Commandant of the Army School of Physical Training, Col. B. Garba, said the workshop would enable the participants to understand the relationship between the legal officers and commanders.

  • COAS vows to crush terrorism, reaffirms Army’s commitment to national security

    COAS vows to crush terrorism, reaffirms Army’s commitment to national security

    The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s determination to eradicate terrorism and secure the nation through robust counter-terrorism operations.

    Speaking at the Interdenominational Church Service held in Abuja on Sunday to commemorate the 2025 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL), Gen. Oluyede issued a stern warning to terrorists and enemies of the state, declaring that their defeat is inevitable and their threats meaningless.

    He stressed that the Army remains unwavering in its mission to protect Nigeria’s sovereignty, safeguard its territorial integrity, and defend the rights of all citizens. 

    He said, “We shall never depart from our honour which is tied to our faith and we will continue to live true to the Nigerian Army motto, “Victory is from God Alone.”

    “To all those who seek to disrupt the sanctity of our freedom, our heritage of liberty and our enduring democracy, be assured that your failure is certain and your boast lacks value. 

    “The Nigerian Army will continue to collaborate with all stakeholders to foster a joint and multi-agency environment to effectively deliver our mandate of securing our beloved nation.”

    The COAS said the tradition of NADCEL provided an opportunity to commemorate the army’s establishment and also reflect on the sacrifices, resilience and selfless commitment of its officers and soldiers in the service to the nation.

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    According to him, it is also a time to remember and honour our brave heroes who fell in the line of duty as well as our dear families that are subjected to bearing our absence, loss and scars of service. 

    “The time-honoured tradition of commencing the Nigerian Army Day Celebration schedule of events with the Jumat Prayers and Interdenominational Church Services symbolizes our humble acknowledgement of the divine role of the Almighty in all our affairs. 

    “This stems from the prevalence of faith and hope being the tenets of moral guidance and emotional stability that reinforces ethical behaviour and motivates us all to act honourably during operations” he added.

    Oluyede said the Nigerian army was commemorating 162 years of dedicated service, saying it shows the deep-rooted patriotism and valor espoused by their forebears. 

    He said the church service was significant, saying the sanctuary was where they drew strength and have hope for tomorrow.

    “So we have come here today to thank God for his mercy and we expect that he will protect us in the future so that we can secure Nigeria better.

    “And with that, we expect Nigeria to come out better and greater and I would like to tell all Nigerians that they should have hope. 

    “The Nigerian army belongs to all Nigerians and security is for all and expect them to give us their maximum support so that we can do our jobs better,” he said.

    In his sermon, the Acting Director, Chaplain Services (Protestant), Lt.-Col. Martins Amuluche, emphasised the importance of loyalty, urging soldiers to remain committed to God, upholding their faith and values.

    Amuluche also urged them to remain dedicated to the Nigerian army while serving the country with integrity and patriotism.

    He also highlighted the need for the Army to prioritise the welfare of its soldiers, suggesting that a transformed army begins with caring for its personnel.