According to our reporter at the State House, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Monday held a closed-door meeting with the newly appointed Service Chiefs, urging them to take swift and decisive action against insurgency and banditry across the country.
The meeting, which lasted about 40 minutes, took place at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, marking Tinubu’s first official engagement with the new military leaders since their appointment on Friday, October 24, 2025.
A source within the presidency revealed that the President emphasized the need for renewed coordination and urgency in tackling insecurity, describing the appointments as a step toward strengthening Nigeria’s defense architecture.
Under the new reshuffle, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede becomes the Chief of Defence Staff, Maj. Gen. Waidi Shaibu takes over as Chief of Army Staff, Air Vice Marshal S.K. Aneke as Chief of Air Staff, and Rear Admiral Ibrahim Abbas as Chief of Naval Staff. The Chief of Defence Intelligence, Maj. Gen. E.A.P. Undiendeye, retained his position.
Our correspondent learned that the President tasked them to “justify the confidence reposed in them” by restoring professionalism, discipline, and synergy among the forces.
Meanwhile, sources at the Naval Headquarters confirmed that Rear Admiral Abbas will officially assume office today, taking over from Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla during a formal handover ceremony scheduled in Abuja.
Tinubu’s decisive tone comes amid growing public concerns over recent security lapses and rumors of unrest within the military ranks—claims the Defence Headquarters has already dismissed as false.
As Nigeria continues to battle insurgency and criminal networks nationwide, security observers say the new appointments signal the President’s intent to inject fresh energy into the country’s defense leadership.
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