President Tinubu has promoted the Acting Chief of Army Staff, Oluyede, to the rank of Lieutenant General in a significant military advancement. Learn more about this development and its impact on the Nigerian Army.
President Bola Tinubu has promoted the acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Olufemi Oluyede, to the rank of Lieutenant General.
On Tuesday, Channels Television received confirmation of the development from sources within the Villa.
If the Senate confirms his appointment, Oluyede will officially become the army chief, permanently succeeding Lagbaja.
The acting Chief of Army Staff was promoted from Major General to Lieutenant General just days after being appointed as the interim army chief by the President.
On October 30, 2024, presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga revealed Oluyede’s appointment following weeks of speculation about the alleged death of army chief Lt-Gen Taoreed Lagbaja. The Defence Headquarters refuted these rumors, clarifying that Lagbaja is simply on leave.
“Oluyede will temporarily assume the role until Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, the indisposed substantive Chief of Army Staff, returns,” stated Onanuga in a statement.
Before his appointment, Oluyede was the 56th Commander of the elite Infantry Corps in the Nigerian Army, located in Jaji, Kaduna.
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Oluyede, aged 56, and Lagbaja were classmates and part of the 39th Regular Course.
He received his commission as a second lieutenant in 1992, backdated to take effect from 1987. He was promoted to Major-General in September 2020.
Since being commissioned as an officer, Oluyede has held numerous positions. He has served as a Platoon Commander and adjutant at the 65 Battalion, a Company Commander at the 177 Guards Battalion, a Staff Officer for the Guards Brigade, and Commandant of the Amphibious Training School.
General Oluyede was involved in numerous operations, such as the Economic Community of West African States Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) Mission in Liberia. He also took part in Operation HARMONY IV in Bakassi and led the 27 Task Force Brigade during Operation HADIN KAI in the North East theatre of operations.
Oluyede has received numerous accolades for his outstanding contributions across different operational areas. These honors include the Corps Medal of Honour, the Grand Service Star, completion of the Staff Course, and membership in the National Institute.
