Acting Chief of Army Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, Holds Strategic Meeting with NSA Nuhu Ribadu and CDS Christopher Musa
The newly appointed Acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Major General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede, convened a significant meeting with the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, and National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, on Thursday in Abuja. This high-level meeting followed closely on the heels of Oluyede’s appointment, which President Bola Tinubu announced just a day prior, designating him as acting COAS while the substantive COAS, Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja, undergoes medical treatment abroad.
The gathering, which took place in the office of the NSA, was marked by discussions that have yet to be disclosed publicly. However, it highlights the swift response by the top military and security officials to adapt to the temporary shift in the leadership of the Nigerian Army. Observers anticipate that the meeting could involve planning for ongoing security operations and strategies to strengthen Nigeria’s national defense.
President Tinubu’s appointment of Oluyede as Acting COAS was confirmed through a statement by the president’s spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, on Wednesday, October 30, 2024. The announcement comes amid heightened security challenges and reflects the administration’s commitment to ensuring continuity in the leadership of the armed forces.
Prior to his recent appointment, Oluyede held the post of Commander of the prestigious Infantry Corps of the Nigerian Army, stationed in Jaji, Kaduna. This role placed him in charge of one of the army’s most critical units, known for its rigorous standards and contributions to both national and international operations. At 56 years old, Oluyede shares a long-standing professional history with Lt. General Lagbaja, both being alumni of the Nigerian Defence Academy’s 39th Regular Course.
Commissioned as a second lieutenant in 1992, Oluyede’s effective commissioning date was set retroactively to 1987. His career has been marked by steady advancement through the ranks, and in September 2020, he reached the rank of Major-General. This experience has prepared him for the demands of the acting COAS role, where he is expected to maintain operational readiness and provide continuity in leadership for the Nigerian Army.
As Oluyede takes on this vital position, his collaboration with other top security officials like NSA Ribadu and CDS Musa will likely play a critical role in addressing the country’s pressing security needs. The meeting in Abuja signals a united front among Nigeria’s top security and defense leaders, committed to safeguarding national stability amidst current challenges.
