The Nigerian Army has announced a sweeping reorganization of its leadership, with senior officers reassigned to strategic roles amid ongoing efforts to counter terrorism, insurgency, and other security challenges. Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, the Chief of Army Staff, authorized the reshuffle, which impacts top commanders across military divisions, training institutions, and operational sectors.
In a Sunday statement issued by Acting Director of Army Public Relations Lt.-Col. Appolonia Anele, the changes include appointments to critical positions at Army Headquarters, such as new chiefs of logistics, personnel management, and military intelligence. Major General Adekunle Adeyinka will lead logistics, while Maj.-Gen. A.A. Adekeye takes charge of personnel affairs. Maj.-Gen. T.B. Ugiagbe assumes oversight of standards and evaluations, and Maj.-Gen. A.A. Idris steps into the role of military intelligence chief.
Regional command shifts see Maj.-Gen. A.S.M. Wase named General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 1 Division, responsible for Operation FANSAN YAMMA in northwest Nigeria, a mission aimed at curbing banditry and terrorism. Maj.-Gen. C.R. Nnebeife will helm the 2 Division under the same operation. Meanwhile, Brig.-Gen. A.A. Bello takes command of the 6 Division Garrison, overseeing security operations in the oil-rich Niger Delta as part of Operation DELTA SAFE.
Notably, Maj.-Gen. S.A. Akesode has been assigned to lead the African Union Verification Mission in Ethiopia’s Tigray region, signaling Nigeria’s involvement in continental peacekeeping efforts. Training institutions also saw rotations, with Maj.-Gen. M.O. Ihanuwaze appointed to head the Nigerian Army Finance School and Maj.-Gen. K.O. Osemwegie assuming leadership of the Army Signal School.
Lt.-Gen. Oluyede urged the newly appointed officers to intensify operations against security threats while emphasizing his commitment to improving troop welfare. The restructuring reflects a broader strategy to optimize command efficiency and bolster Nigeria’s response to persistent instability, particularly in regions plagued by armed groups. Analysts suggest the move aligns with efforts to refresh leadership in long-running counterinsurgency campaigns, though the long-term impact on security dynamics remains to be seen.
