By Ayodele Oni
Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, on Thursday, assumed duty as the 19th Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), following the confirmation of his appointment by the National Assembly, along with other service chiefs.
Speaking at the brief handing and taking over ceremony at the Defence Headquarters (DHQ), Abuja, Gen. Oluyede reaffirmed his total commitment to the defence and security of the nation from insurgent activities.
Gen. Oluyede acknowledged the nature of threats confronting the nation, ranging from terrorism, insurgency, and banditry to emerging cyber, aerial, and maritime security challenges, which require the military to be ever vigilant, innovative, and united.
“My leadership will therefore be guided by the principles of professionalism, jointness, discipline, innovation, and accountability.
“We shall build on the achievements of my predecessor by strengthening synergy among the services and defence agencies.
“We shall also enhance intelligence-driven operations and deepen collaboration with other security and law enforcement agencies. Our objective, which is to restore and sustain peace, stability, and national cohesion in every part of our dear country, remains uncontestable.”
Gen. Oluyede, while promising to sustain the ongoing fight against terrorism, banditry, and other forms of criminality in the country, expressed optimism that whatever challenges the nation is currently facing, success will be achieved.
“We will prevail as a nation. It is a battle that must be fought on multiple fronts, and crucial among them is the battle space of public trust, information, and national morale.”
The CDS added that, apart from welfare for officers and men, he would prioritise capacity building, research, and technological innovation to enhance operational efficiency and strategic foresight.
“In doing so, we shall leverage the resources and intellect available across our defence institutions, as well as partnerships with local and international stakeholders. To our gallant soldiers, ratings, airmen, and airwomen, you remain the pride and backbone of our armed forces.”
Earlier, the outgoing CDS, Gen. Christopher Musa, said his tenure was challenging but incredibly rewarding.
According to him, “We faced a complex and dynamic security landscape, but we confronted it with unwavering resolve, guided by our constitutional mandate and a shared vision for a secure and prosperous Nigeria.
“We pursued a philosophy of jointness, people-centricity, inter-agency cooperation, and kinetic synergy.
“Under my watch, we worked tirelessly to deepen the integration of our Army, Navy, and Air Force. The establishment of Joint Task Forces across our theatres of operation stands as a testament to our commitment to a unified approach,” Musa said.
Gen. Musa lauded the role played by the media during his tenure, describing it as an invaluable ally of the military and a vital bridge between the front lines and the public—standing tall for the realities on the ground against the propaganda of the enemies, and carrying the stories of the troops’ courage, resilience, and sacrifice in the face of immense adversity.
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