By Joy Odor, Abuja
Nigeria’s defence architecture entered a new era on Thursday as General Olufemi Oluyede formally assumed office as the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), succeeding General Christopher Musa in a seamless handover ceremony at the Defence Headquarters, Abuja.
In a stirring inaugural address, Oluyede vowed to lead a “united, intelligence-driven, and disciplined military” capable of tackling Nigeria’s complex security challenges with precision and collaboration.
“This appointment is a call to higher service,” he declared. “I pledge to devote my energy, experience, and vision to safeguarding Nigeria’s peace, unity, and territorial integrity.”
Oluyede, widely regarded as a soldier-scholar and strategic thinker, expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for entrusting him with the nation’s top military office at what he described as a “critical period for national security.”
He promised to build on the operational gains achieved by his predecessor, strengthening inter-service synergy and deepening cooperation among the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
“Success in modern warfare depends on unity and intelligence sharing,” Oluyede said. “Security is a collective responsibility that demands innovation, discipline, and constant vigilance. Under my watch, the Armed Forces will operate with professionalism, transparency, and respect for human rights.”
Paying tribute to his predecessor, General Musa, Oluyede commended his leadership and reforms, describing them as “a solid structure that will serve as a springboard for future strategic transformation.”
In his valedictory remarks, Musa reflected on his tenure with pride and gratitude, noting the resilience of Nigeria’s military through years of evolving threats.
“I thank President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve, and every officer and soldier for their loyalty and sacrifice,” he said. “Though I am bowing out of active service, my heart remains with the military and with Nigeria.”
The ceremony, marked by military precision and solemn dignity, featured the signing of handover notes, the decoration of Oluyede with the Defence Headquarters insignia, and the symbolic lowering and presentation of the Defence flag—signifying a peaceful, honourable transfer of command.
With Oluyede now at the helm, expectations are high that the Defence Headquarters will pivot toward an era defined by strategic intelligence, unity of purpose, and a renewed commitment to national stability.
