President Bola Tinubu has officially appointed Major General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede as the acting Chief of Army Staff. This decision comes in light of the prolonged absence of General Tahoreed Lagbaja, the current Chief of Army Staff, who has been out of the country for some time.
General Lagbaja is reportedly dealing with an undisclosed health issue in the United States. His absence has necessitated the appointment of an acting chief to ensure the smooth functioning of military operations.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, confirmed that Oluyede would oversee the Army’s affairs until Lagbaja returns. This move is intended to maintain stability within the military during this transitional period.
President Tinubu, who serves as the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, emphasized the importance of leadership continuity in the Army. The appointment of Oluyede is seen as a strategic decision to uphold operational effectiveness.
Major General Oluyede, who is 56 years old, previously served as the 56th Commander of the elite Infantry Corps of the Nigerian Army, based in Jaji, Kaduna. His extensive experience in various military roles positions him well to take on this interim responsibility.
Oluyede and Lagbaja are not only colleagues but also course mates from the 39th Regular Course. He was commissioned as a second lieutenant in 1992, with his effective date dating back to 1987. He achieved the rank of Major General in September 2020.
Read also: Tinubu directs military intervention against Zamfara bandits
Throughout his career, Oluyede has held numerous command positions. His previous roles include serving as Platoon Commander and adjutant at the 65 Battalion, Company Commander at the 177 Guards Battalion, Staff Officer for the Guards Brigade, and Commandant of the Amphibious Training School.
In his personal life, Major General Oluyede is married and has three children. His appointment reflects the trust placed in him to lead the Army during this critical time.
