The first officer to be appointed in that role in the history of the Nigerian Army is Maj.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, who was recently appointed Acting Chief of Army Staff. Oluyede was named Acting COAS by President Bola Tinubu, awaiting the return of Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja from medical leave, who is the substantive COAS. Lagbaja is reportedly recovering after spending around a month overseas in an unidentified hospital on medical leave.
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, described the appointment of Oluyede as an unusual happening in the history of the Armed Forces of Nigeria. He stated that taking over leadership of the Army by an Acting COAS was the first due to the unusual circumstances at the moment. The CDS stated that 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).
Oluyede thanked President Bola Tinubu for recognising his ability to lead the Army and promised to do so fully in line with the President’s orders and Lagbaja’s command focus. In order to put an end to all forms of instability in the nation, he asked for everyone’s support and collaboration as well as prayers for Lt.-Gen. TA Lagbaja’s quick recovery and safe return to finish the career cycle.
