By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukeu
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced sweeping changes in the leadership of Nigeria’s Armed Forces in what insiders describe as a major security overhaul aimed at strengthening the country’s defence strategy.
In the new appointments approved on Friday, General Olufemi Oluyede replaces General Christopher Musa as Chief of Defence Staff, marking the end of Musa’s 16-month tenure.
Similarly, Major-General W. Shaibu has been appointed Chief of Army Staff, Air Vice Marshal S.K. Aneke is now Chief of Air Staff, while Rear Admiral I. Abbas takes charge as Chief of Naval Staff.
The Chief of Defence Intelligence, Major-General E.A.P. Undiendeye, however, retains his position in the new structure.
A statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, said the changes take immediate effect.
President Tinubu, according to the statement, expressed deep appreciation to the outgoing service chiefs for their patriotic service and dedication, urging the new military heads to uphold professionalism, vigilance, and unity in defending the country’s sovereignty.
“This administration will continue to prioritize the welfare and operational readiness of the Armed Forces to meet the nation’s security challenges,” Tinubu was quoted as saying.
Security analysts believe the reshuffle signals the President’s growing impatience with the persistent insecurity in parts of the country and his desire to inject “fresh energy and strategy” into the nation’s security leadership.
The appointments come amid renewed insurgent activities in the North-East, banditry in the North-West, and rising separatist tensions in the South-East.