By: Martha Obi, Abuja
The newly appointed Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede has pledged unwavering commitment to professionalism, innovation, and accountability in steering the Nigerian Armed Forces towards enhanced national security, unity, and stability.
In his inaugural address during the handing and taking over ceremony, the new Chief of Defence Staff said “he was fully aware of the weight of the task ahead and expressed gratitude to his predecessor, General Christopher Musa, for his selfless leadership and significant contributions to Nigeria’s defence and security architecture”.
He commended the outgoing CDS for leading the Armed Forces through critical phases of the country’s security challenges, which, according to him, resulted in notable improvements in joint operations, intelligence collaboration, and personnel welfare.
General Oluyede reaffirmed his total commitment to defending the Federal Republic of Nigeria, noting that the country faces complex and evolving threats, including terrorism, insurgency, banditry, as well as emerging cyber, aerial, and maritime security challenges.
He emphasised that his leadership philosophy would be anchored on professionalism, discipline, innovation, and accountability, assuring that efforts would be made to strengthen synergy among the services and defence agencies for more effective operations.
According to him, the Defence Headquarters under his command will enhance intelligence-driven operations and deepen collaboration with other security and law enforcement agencies to restore and sustain peace, stability, and national cohesion in all parts of the country.
Stressing the importance of personnel welfare to operational effectiveness, he promised to continue advocating improved welfare, housing, medical support, and training opportunities for officers, men, and their families, as well as recognising their moral and psychological needs.
The CDS pledged to prioritise capacity building, research, and technological innovation to strengthen operational efficiency and foresight, adding that his administration would leverage resources and partnerships with local and international stakeholders to achieve its goals.
He expressed deep appreciation to the nation’s soldiers, airmen, and airwomen for their loyalty and sacrifices, urging them to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and patriotism.
He also acknowledged the contributions of retired officers and veterans, calling on Nigerians to continue supporting the Armed Forces in the collective task of safeguarding the nation’s peace and unity.
Earlier, the outgoing Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa expressed profound gratitude to the Armed Forces and the nation as he bows out after 39 years of meritorious service, urging officers to remain united, disciplined, and committed to the defence of Nigeria under the new leadership.
Speaking during the official handover ceremony to his successor, General Musa described his 39-year career as a journey of service, sacrifice, and fulfilment.
He thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for the trust reposed in him and the opportunity to lead the military during a critical period in Nigeria’s history.
Reflecting on his tenure, the outgoing CDS said “his leadership was guided by a philosophy of jointness, people-centricity, inter-agency cooperation, and kinetic synergy; principles that strengthened unity among the Army, Navy, and Air Force”.
He noted that the establishment of Joint Task Forces across theatres of operation demonstrated a firm commitment to an integrated military strategy.
General Musa highlighted major achievements recorded under his command, including improved intelligence sharing, enhanced operational effectiveness, and notable progress in the fight against terrorism, insurgency, and other criminal activities.
He, however, stressed that the journey towards a fully secure Nigeria was ongoing and required sustained effort and vigilance.
He commended officers, men, and women of the Armed Forces for their courage, resilience, and patriotism in confronting asymmetric warfare and protecting the nation’s territorial integrity.
He also emphasised the importance of welfare, noting that a motivated force remains the backbone of national defence.
General Musa expressed deep appreciation to former service chiefs, defence partners, and stakeholders for their cooperation and support during his tenure.
He paid special tribute to fallen heroes and wounded personnel, describing their sacrifices as symbols of courage, honour, and national pride.
As he took his final bow from active service, the retired CDS urged officers to give full loyalty and cooperation to his successor and reaffirmed his unshakable commitment to Nigeria’s peace, unity, and progress.
“I may be retiring from service but my love for this country and my prayers for our Armed Forces will never end. The journey continues, the mission endures, and the duty never ends”, he said.
In his remarks, the Chief of Defence Policy and Plans, Air Vice Marshal Soya Olatunde described the ceremony as a historic and emotional moment, marking the end of an illustrious military career that spanned over three decades.
He noted that General Christopher Musa’s retirement was not merely a departure from service but a celebration of a life defined by sacrifice, courage, and purposeful leadership in the defence of the nation.
Air Vice Marshal Olatunde lauded the outgoing CDS for his remarkable contributions to national security and humanity, stating that his legacy of integrity, professionalism, and commitment would continue to inspire generations of officers.
He congratulated General Musa on his successful career and urged all present to celebrate his enduring impact, which he described as “seen by the blind, felt by the numb, spoken by the dumb, and heard by the deaf.”
Olusola Akintonde