Amid worsening insecurity from Boko Haram, bandits, kidnappers, and other non-state actors, Nigerians are placing high expectations on newly appointed service chiefs to reorganize and strengthen the nation’s security operations.

President Bola Tinubu last week appointed:

• Olufemi Oluyede – Chief of Defence Staff (replacing Christopher Musa)
• W. Shaibu – Chief of Army Staff
• S.K. Aneke – Chief of Air Staff
• I. Abbas – Naval Chief
• E.A.P. Undiendeye – Chief of Defence Intelligence (retained)

Stakeholders, including PAUDEN and the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC), see the appointments as strategic steps to enhance professionalism and national defense, though some express cautious optimism regarding political motivations and regional perceptions.

Military analysts note the reshuffle aligns with the two-year service cycle of chiefs and provides an opportunity for fresh strategies, better career progression, and operational efficiency. Retired officers, including Maj. Gen. Anthony Atolagbe, Rear Admiral Dickson Olisemelogor, and Brig.-Gen. Sani Usman, welcomed the changes, urging that the new team be given full operational freedom and resources to deliver results.

President Tinubu charged the new chiefs to prioritize results over excuses, emphasizing that Nigerians expect tangible improvements in national security. Analysts like Mike Ejiofor added that the new leadership should build on the successes of the outgoing chiefs while addressing ongoing challenges.