A new era for Nigeria’s Armed Forces as the President reshuffles top military leadership to strengthen national security.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a sweeping reorganisation of Nigeria’s military hierarchy, announcing a new team of Service Chiefs to steer the Armed Forces toward greater efficiency and national security reform.
In a statement released by the State House, the President appointed:
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General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede — Chief of Defence Staff
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Major General Waidi Shaibu — Chief of Army Staff
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Air Vice Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke — Chief of Air Staff
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Rear Admiral Idi Abbas — Chief of Naval Staff
Major General Emmanuel Akomaye Parker Undiandeye retains his position as Chief of Defence Intelligence.
President Tinubu commended the outgoing military leaders for their patriotic service and charged the new chiefs to “justify the confidence reposed in them” by upholding professionalism, vigilance, and comradeship across the Armed Forces.
“All appointments take immediate effect,” the statement signed by Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, concluded.
THE NEW MILITARY LEADERSHIP
GEN. OLUFEMI O. OLUYEDE — Chief of Defence Staff
A decorated soldier and scholar, Lieutenant General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede hails from Ikere-Ekiti, Ekiti State. Born on June 21, 1968, he joined the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1987 and was commissioned into the Infantry Corps.
Over a career spanning more than three decades, he has held multiple command and staff appointments, including Chief of Army Staff, GOC 6 Division, and Commander, Operation LAFIYA DOLE in the North-East.
A seasoned strategist and Member of the National Institute (mni), General Oluyede’s leadership philosophy—
“Consolidating the transformation of the Nigerian Army towards a well-motivated, combat-ready force”—
has guided his reforms in welfare, training, and equipment modernisation.
He holds degrees in Economics and Strategic Studies, and is a recipient of top military honours including the Grand Service Star (GSS), Field Command Medal (FCM), and Corps Medal of Honour (CMH).
MAJ. GEN. WAIDI SHAIBU — Chief of Army Staff
Born December 18, 1971, in Kogi State, Major General Waidi Shaibu brings a blend of intellect and experience to the Nigerian Army’s top office. Commissioned into the Armour Corps in 1994, he has commanded troops in numerous operations including Operation HADIN KAI and the African Union Mission in Sudan.
He holds multiple degrees—among them, Master’s in Public Administration, Strategic Studies, and Security Studies, as well as a PhD (in view) from the University of Ibadan.
An alumnus of Harvard Kennedy School, General Shaibu’s extensive military training spans Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, and the United States. His distinguished awards include the Distinguished Service Star, Purple Heart Medal, and Field Command Medal of Honour.
“Discipline, depth, and duty define his approach to leadership and service.”
REAR ADMIRAL IDI ABBAS — Chief of Naval Staff
Born September 20, 1969, in Kano State, Rear Admiral Idi Abbas was commissioned into the Nigerian Navy in 1992. A graduate of the 40th Regular Course, his rise through the ranks reflects a career marked by operational excellence and anti-piracy success.
As Flag Officer Commanding, Central Naval Command, Yenagoa, he was pivotal in reducing oil theft and maritime crime in the Niger Delta.
Until his appointment, he served at the Nigerian Army Heritage and Future Centre, where his inter-service policy experience shaped joint operations strategy.
Known for his calm precision and firm grasp of maritime security, Admiral Abbas is described by colleagues as “a professional’s professional.”
AIR VICE MARSHAL SUNDAY KELVIN ANEKE — Chief of Air Staff
A pilot, strategist, and teacher, Air Vice Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke hails from Udi LGA, Enugu State, and was born on February 20, 1972. He joined the Nigerian Air Force in 1988 and was commissioned in 1993.
With over 4,300 flying hours, Aneke has piloted aircraft ranging from the Gulfstream V to the Hawker 4000 and commanded key units including the 307 Executive Airlift Group and Mobility Command in Yenagoa.
Aneke holds master’s degrees in International Affairs, Political Economy, and Strategic Studies, and a PhD (in view). His calm, methodical leadership has earned him respect across the Air Force.
“Flying high with focus and integrity defines his trajectory.”
MAJ. GEN. EMMANUEL A. P. UNDIANDEYE — Chief of Defence Intelligence
Cross River–born Major General Emmanuel Akomaye Parker Undiandeye continues as Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Intelligence (CDI). A graduate of the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, UK, and alumnus of the National Defense University, Washington DC, Undiandeye is one of Nigeria’s most accomplished intelligence officers.
He has served in several UN peacekeeping roles, including the United Nations Mission in Liberia and UN Headquarters, New York, and has played key roles in modernising Nigeria’s intelligence framework.
He holds degrees in History and Strategic Security Studies, and is an International Counter Terrorism Fellow. His medals include the Grand Service Star, Defence Meritorious Star, and Training Support Medal.
“Intelligence wins wars before they begin.” — Undiandeye
A NEW STRATEGIC DIRECTION
President Tinubu’s reshuffle represents more than personnel change—it signals a strategic renewal. With battle-tested officers across all branches, the Armed Forces enter a new phase of professional synergy, modernization, and regional cooperation.
The appointments also reflect a growing emphasis on joint operations, intelligence-led security, and welfare-driven command philosophy—hallmarks of a modern military culture the Tinubu administration seeks to institutionalize.
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