Acting COAS Oluyede Calls For Prayer For Lagbaja As He Takes Over

Newly appointed Acting Chief of Army Staff, Maj.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, on Friday took command, becoming the first officer in Nigerian Army history to be appointed to the role in an acting capacity.

President Bola Tinubu had named Oluyede as Acting COAS on Wednesday to temporarily lead the army while the substantive COAS, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja continues his medical leave abroad.

In his address, Oluyede expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for entrusting him with the position during a critical period for the nation.

He emphasized that his role as Acting COAS aims to ensure Lagbaja receives adequate time to recover fully before returning to duty.

He said, “As we turn into this unique period, I request that we all continue to pray for Lt.-Gen. TA Lagbaja’s speedy recovery and safe return to complete the career cycle.

“Furthermore, I seek everyone’s support and cooperation so that we can succeed together in ending all forms of insecurity in the country and return our beautiful country to a land of peace and economic prosperity.”

Meanwhile, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, on Friday, said the appointment of Oluyede is in line with the provisions enshrined in the Armed Forces Act, Cap A-20, the Laws of the Federation 2004, Parts 7 Administration, Government, and Command, Sections 18 (1-4).