President Bola Tinubu has named Major General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede as the acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS) of the Nigerian Army.
This decision comes as the current Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, is temporarily indisposed.
A statement issued on Wednesday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser, Information and Strategy to the President said General Oluyede, who has a distinguished military career, previously served as the 56th Commander of the Infantry Corps, based in Jaji, Kaduna.
He added that at 56 years old, he brings a wealth of experience to the position, having been commissioned as a second lieutenant in 1992 and rising to the rank of Major General in September 2020.
The statement informed that Oluyede and Lagbaja are not only colleagues but also coursemates from the 39th Regular Course, indicating a strong professional relationship that spans their careers.
According to the statement, his extensive background includes numerous leadership roles and operational commands, such as serving as Platoon Commander and Adjutant at the 65 Battalion, Company Commander at the 177 Guards Battalion, and Commandant of the Amphibious Training School.
The new acting COAS has been actively involved in several crucial military operations. Notably, he participated in the Economic Community of West African States Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) mission in Liberia, Operation HARMONY IV in Bakassi, and most recently, Operation HADIN KAI in the North East, where he commanded the 27 Task Force Brigade.
Throughout his career, Oluyede has received various accolades for his service, including the Corps Medal of Honour, the Grand Service Star, and the Chief of Army Staff Commendation Award.
His decorations highlight his commitment and contributions to national security and military excellence.
In his personal life, Major General Oluyede is married and a father of three, further underscoring his balance of military duty and family responsibilities.
The appointment of Major General Oluyede is expected to ensure continuity in leadership within the Nigerian Army, particularly as the country navigates various security challenges.
Tinubu hopes that his experience and proven track record will be vital in upholding the operational readiness and effectiveness of the Army during this transitional period.
|SituationReport|
President Tinubu Appoints Oluyede As Acting Chief of Army Staff
