On Friday, Maj.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede formally assumed office as the Acting Chief of Army Staff, making him the first officer in Nigerian Army history to hold this position.
President Bola Tinubu appointed Mr. Oluyede on Wednesday, while substantive COAS Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja remains on medical leave, reportedly recuperating in an undisclosed hospital abroad for the past month.
During the event, Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Christopher Musa highlighted the significance of Mr. Oluyede’s appointment, referring to it as an unprecedented occurrence in the Nigerian Armed Forces.
Gen. Musa stated, “The transition to an Acting COAS is a first, given the unusual circumstances we face. Today’s event is historic; our brother and friend is on medical leave, and we pray for his swift recovery and return. Following discussions with the relevant authorities, the President and I have appointed an acting Chief of Army Staff, who will wield full authority to lead the army until further notice. As professionals, we must remain focused on our tasks ahead.”
“No doubt, based on the challenges we have in the country, and the wisdom of the President, Commander-in-Chief, that today we present the authority to the Acting Chief of Army Staff for him to have full control and command of the Nigerian Army,” he said.
The CDS said the appointment of Oluyede is in line with the provisions enshrined in the Armed Forces Act, Cap A-20, the Laws of the Federation 2004, Parts 7 Administration, Government, and Command, Sections 18 (1-4).
In his response, the Acting COAS thanked President Tinubu for finding him worthy to take charge of the responsibility in a peculiar and sober situation as a nation.
Mr Oluyede said that his appointment as Acting COAS was simply the right thing to do to enable Mr Lagbaja to take sufficient time to get necessary medical attention and recuperate.
He pledged to play the role with full commitment in accordance with the directives of the president and the command focus of Mr Lagbaja.
He said, “As we turn into this unique period, I request that we all continue to pray for Lt.-Gen. TA Lagbaja’s speedy recovery and safe return to complete the career cycle. Furthermore, I seek everyone’s support and cooperation so that we can succeed together in ending all forms of insecurity in the country and return our beautiful country to a land of peace and economic prosperity.”
