The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, has called on top military officers and commanders to unite in the fight against insecurity across Nigeria. This appeal was made during the inauguration of Maj.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede as the new Acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS) on Friday in Abuja.
Gen. Musa highlighted the current challenges facing Nigeria, stressing the need for collective effort to address the issues. He noted that President Bola Tinubu’s decision to appoint the acting COAS was aimed at ensuring continuity and preventing any operational gaps within the military.
“We cannot afford to stay back and allow insecurity to continue to prevail,” Gen. Musa stated. He emphasized the importance of supporting the new acting COAS, asserting, “Gen. Lagbaja is a regimented officer who would not want any gap to occur in his absence.”
In a rallying call to the armed forces, the CDS urged all personnel to set aside personal issues and prioritize the survival of Nigeria and its military services. “Everybody should put his hands on deck and let us succeed,” he declared.
Gen. Musa commended the efforts of commanders in the field, acknowledging their hard work in the face of ongoing threats from bandits and terrorists. “We know they are performing magic, but we want to urge them not to relent because the challenges are not relenting either,” he warned, especially as the nation approaches December, a time often fraught with security concerns.
The CDS assured that all branches of the military would work collaboratively to maintain peace and security, in line with the directives of the commander-in-chief. He confirmed that with the appointment of Maj.-Gen. Oluyede, the responsibility of leading the Nigerian Army now rests firmly on his shoulders.
“Your responsibilities are wide and varied,” Gen. Musa stated, urging the new COAS to immediately begin overseeing the administration of the army. He also mentioned that a comprehensive briefing would follow, ensuring that Maj.-Gen. Oluyede is well-prepared for his new role.
Gen. Musa reminded the acting COAS of the significance of his appointment, rooted in his extensive military leadership experience, character, and competence. He expressed confidence that Maj.-Gen. Oluyede would build on the successes of his predecessors, enhancing the professionalism and resilience that the Nigerian Army is recognized for globally.
As the military gears up for the challenges ahead, the emphasis remains on unity, dedication, and the unwavering commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
