By Harriet Tornguvan -Abuja
Major General Olufemi Olatumbosun Oluyede has officially assumed the role of Acting Chief of Army Staff after completing the formal handover ceremony with the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, at the Defence Headquarters on November 1.The handover took place with a signing and exchange of notes.
General Musa stressed the importance of maintaining unity and continuity in leadership, emphasizing that President Bola Tinubu is committed to avoiding any leadership gap amid the country’s ongoing security challenges.
He called upon senior officials, including Principal Staff Officers at Army Headquarters, General Officers Commanding, and Corps Commanders, to extend their full support to Major General Oluyede.
“This ceremonial handover by the Acting Chief of Army Staff marks a unique moment in Nigeria’s history.
"Yet, change is a constant, and this transition exemplifies that principle.
General Musa explained that the appointment of Major General Oluyede was necessitated by Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja’s health condition, highlighting the President’s constitutional authority to act swiftly to ensure continuity in the armed forces.
He affirmed that the process aligns with federal laws, entrusting the Nigerian Army’s responsibilities to Major General Oluyede until Lt. General Lagbaja’s return.
"We need everyone’s commitment. The President wants no gaps. We are praying for Lagbaja’s speedy recovery and await his return," he added.
Major General Oluyede In his acceptance remarks, expressed his gratitude to President Tinubu for the trust placed in him to lead the Army during this period.
“I am deeply thankful for this opportunity and honored by the President’s confidence in me to carry forward the duties of the Chief of Army Staff until my leader, Lt. Gen. TA Lagbaja, resumes,” he stated.
