Nigeria's Tinubu replaces service chiefs in major military shake-up


Nigeria's President Bola Tinubu speaks during a joint press statement with Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva (not pictured), at the Planalto Palace, in Brasilia, Brazil, August 25, 2025. REUTERS/Adriano Machado

LAGOS (Reuters) -Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has appointed new service chiefs in a sweeping overhaul of the country's military leadership, the presidency said on Friday, as part of efforts to strengthen national security.

The reshuffle comes amid persistent security challenges across Nigeria, including Islamist insurgencies in the northeast, armed banditry in the northwest, and separatist unrest in the southeast.

General Olufemi Oluyede was named Chief of Defence Staff, replacing General Christopher Musa, who was appointed just over two years ago after Tinubu came into office.

Major-General W. Shaibu was appointed Chief of Army Staff, while Air Vice Marshal S.K. Aneke and Rear Admiral I. Abbas were named Chiefs of Air and Naval Staff, respectively.

Major-General E.A.P. Undiendeye retained his position as Chief of Defence Intelligence.

"All appointments take immediate effect," the presidency said in a statement.

(Reporting by Benjamin EzeamaluWriting by Chijioke Ohuocha, Editing by MacDonald Dzirutwe and Crispian Balmer)

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Next In World

Verification is key in US-Iran nuclear talks, Saudi foreign minister says
Mexico City police arrest man for allegedly renting out World Cup pass
France's Macron hosts Trump at Versailles Palace
Russia accuses Ukraine of attacking bus carrying schoolchildren, Kyiv denies it
U.S. stocks close lower
EU parliament backs law allowing offshore detention centres
1st LD Writethru: At least 11 killed, 19 injured in bus crash in central Peru
Gunmen kill 9, injure 11 in north Nigeria attack
Portugal draws 1-1 with DR Congo in FIFA World Cup Group K opener
Crude futures settle higher

Others Also Read