Tinubu Sacks All Service Chiefs: Here Are Reasons Behind The Major Shake-Up. – Why This Matters
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced the removal of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and other top service chiefs in a sweeping overhaul of Nigeria’s security leadership.
According to the Presidency, the decision is part of a routine restructuring aimed at strengthening national security and improving the effectiveness of the armed forces across the country.
Presidential spokesperson Sunday Dare confirmed the development on Friday, saying President Tinubu, as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, has the constitutional authority to appoint or replace service chiefs when necessary.
“This is routine and meant to boost security across the nation. The Commander-in-Chief can at any time make changes to both ministerial and service chiefs, just as commanding officers of divisions can be reassigned or removed,” Dare stated.
Full List of Sacked Service Chiefs and Their Replacements
Position Sacked Officer Replacement
Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Christopher Musa Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede
Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja Major General W. Shaibu
Chief of Air Staff (CAS) Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar Air Vice Marshal S.K. Aneke
Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla Rear Admiral I. Abbas
Chief of Defence Intelligence (CDI) Major General E.A.P. Undiendeye Retained
Why This Matters
This sweeping shake-up comes amid growing national concern over insecurity and rumours of a possible coup — claims that both the Presidency and the Nigerian Army have dismissed as false.
1. Boosting National Security:
The new appointments are expected to bring fresh strategies and renewed discipline to the nation’s security operations amid persistent threats of terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping.
2. Reinforcing Civilian Authority:
The move reaffirms that civilian leadership firmly controls the military, ensuring stability and constitutional order.
3. Strategic Continuity:
Retaining the Chief of Defence Intelligence provides institutional stability within the nation’s top security apparatus.
4. Performance Accountability:
The changes also reflect President Tinubu’s zero-tolerance for underperformance, sending a clear message that his administration prioritizes results and accountability at the highest levels of government
Conclusion
The latest appointments underline President Tinubu’s determination to retool Nigeria’s defence architecture for maximum efficiency. With new service chiefs now in command, Nigerians expect a more coordinated and decisive approach to restoring peace and security across the nation.
