President Bola Tinubu has appointed Major General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede as the acting Chief of Army Staff, following the indisposition of Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja.
Oluyede, 56, will assume the role until Lagbaja’s return. This development comes after the Nigerian Army debunked reports of Lagbaja’s death, stating that he was critically ill but alive.
Oluyede, a member of the 39th Regular Course, has had a distinguished military career. He was commissioned as a second lieutenant in 1992 and rose to Major-General in September 2020. Oluyede has held various commands, including Platoon Commander and adjutant at 65 Battalion, Company Commander at 177 Guards Battalion, and Commandant Amphibious Training School.
Oluyede has participated in several operations, including the Economic Community of West African States Monitoring Group Mission in Liberia, Operation HARMONY IV in Bakassi, and Operation HADIN KAI in the North East theatre of operations. He has received numerous honors for his meritorious service, including the Corps Medal of Honour, the Grand Service Star, and the Chief of Army Staff Commendation Award.
The appointment of Oluyede as acting Chief of Army Staff has been seen as a move to ensure stability and continuity in the Nigerian Army. Despite the rumors surrounding Lagbaja’s health, the Nigerian Army has assured the public that he is alive and receiving treatment.
In a statement, Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, announced Oluyede’s appointment, highlighting his distinguished military career and honors. The Nigerian Army has also confirmed Oluyede’s appointment, stating that he will assume the role until Lagbaja’s return.
