Retired Generals Backs Tinubu’s Military Shakeup

Retired military generals have reacted to President Bola Tinubu’s decision to reshuffle the leadership of Nigeria’s Armed Forces, describing it as a strategic and timely move to reinvigorate the country’s security structure.

Tinubu had on Friday appointed General Olufemi Oluyede as the new Chief of Defence Staff, replacing General Christopher Musa. Major-General Waidi Shuaibu was named Chief of Army Staff, Air Vice Marshal S.K. Aneke became Chief of Air Staff, while Rear Admiral Idi Abbas was appointed Chief of Naval Staff. Major-General E.A.P. Undiendeye retained his role as Chief of Defence Intelligence.

In a statement, the presidency said the changes were made to strengthen Nigeria’s national security architecture and ensure better coordination in tackling insecurity.

Reacting to the development, several retired military officers described the shakeup as routine and long overdue. One former Theatre Commander said the move marked a “return to normalcy,” noting that the two-year tenure cycle for service chiefs had been a long-standing military tradition disrupted in recent years.

“It is a routine change of service chiefs, having completed their two years’ tenure. This allows younger officers to move up and prevents stagnation. The tradition promotes continuity and professionalism,” he said.

Retired General Anthony Atolagbe, speaking during a television interview, said the change would boost morale in the military, adding that Tinubu’s action restored a sense of order in the armed forces.

“There will be excitement in the military because of this change. It will make for career progression, and that is remarkable by this administration,” he said.

A former Air Component Commander also commended the decision, saying leadership shifts were necessary when security challenges persist. “Such changes often come when there’s a need to introduce fresh strategies or align with the government’s goals,” he explained.

Rear Admiral Dickson Olisemelogor (retd) described the appointments as “timely and necessary,” but stressed that the real test lay in granting the new chiefs full operational freedom. “The President must give them clear instructions and allow them to execute without interference,” he said.

Okechukwu Nwanguma, Executive Director of the Rule of Law and Accountability Centre (RULAAC), also noted that while Tinubu’s move was within his constitutional powers, success would depend on whether the new team brings “fresh strategy, integrity, and accountability” to the fight against insecurity.

A serving senior officer, who preferred anonymity, echoed the same view, saying, “If the political class genuinely supports the military and gives clear direction, this crisis can end.”

The newly appointed Service Chiefs, led by Major-General Waidi Shuaibu — a seasoned officer with advanced military and academic training — are expected to chart a new course for Nigeria’s armed forces amid rising security threats across the country.