On Tuesday, President Bola Tinubu promoted the acting Chief of Army Staff, Maj Gen Olufemi Oluyede, to the rank of Lieutenant General. The promotion ceremony took place at the State House in Abuja, marking an important milestone for the military leader, who has been serving in an acting capacity since October 30, 2024. Oluyede stepped in for Lt Gen Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff, who has been receiving medical treatment abroad.
During the ceremony, Tinubu praised Oluyede’s dedication and service to Nigeria’s military.
“It is both an honor and a privilege to decorate you today,” the President said, acknowledging Oluyede’s commitment to Nigeria’s security.
“This recognition reflects your commitment and service to the Nigerian military, which speaks volumes through your exemplary record,” Tinubu added.
The President further expressed his appreciation for the military’s efforts in securing the nation and highlighted the importance of harmony within the armed forces.
“The synergy among you has calmed the country, and we need that stability to continue,” he noted.
Tinubu encouraged the service chiefs to maintain their collaboration to support Nigeria’s peace and prosperity, noting that the combined efforts of the armed forces have played a significant role in reducing terrorism and banditry in the nation.
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The President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, confirmed that the promotion ceremony took place in the President’s office. Onanuga’s statement, titled President Tinubu Decorates Acting Chief of Army Staff Oluyede with New Rank, Pledges Better Days Ahead for Nigerians, highlighted Tinubu’s promise to support the military’s mission and ensure peace across the country.
In his response, Lt Gen Oluyede expressed gratitude for the promotion and recognized the solemn importance of the occasion. He pledged to uphold the vision of Chief of Army Staff Lt Gen Lagbaja and continue working to safeguard the nation.
“I am deeply honored by this promotion and remain committed to ensuring peace across Nigeria,” Oluyede affirmed.
Lt Gen Oluyede, who has been with the Nigerian Army for over three decades, was commissioned as a second lieutenant on September 19, 1992. He has participated in multiple military operations, including the Economic Community of West African States Monitoring Group mission in Liberia, Operation Harmony IV in Bakassi, and Operation Hadin Kai in the North East. His extensive experience and leadership are expected to strengthen the Nigerian Army’s efforts to maintain national stability.