Meet the New Service Chiefs: Military Strategists Tasked with Securing Nigeria

Abuja, Nigeria – A new leadership team has taken command of the Nigerian Armed Forces, bringing together a powerful combination of frontline combat experience, deep academic prowess, and strategic international exposure. Appointed to steer the nation’s security apparatus through complex challenges, these officers represent some of the military’s most distinguished and versatile leaders.

Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede – Chief of Defence Staff

At the helm is Lieutenant General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede, a seasoned infantry general from Ekiti State. A member of the Nigerian Defence Academy’s (NDA) 39th Regular Course, General Oluyede’s career is marked by transformational leadership. He brings experience from early ECOMOG operations in Sierra Leone to commanding critical sectors in the North East counter-insurgency. He was immediate past Chief of Army Staff.

An alumnus of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), his leadership philosophy centres on building a “combat-ready, motivated, and well-coordinated force.” As the overall strategic commander, he is expected to drive enhanced inter-service cooperation and intelligence-led operations across all theatres.

Major General Waidi Shaibu – Chief of Army Staff

Taking command of the Nigerian Army is Major General Waidi Shaibu from Kogi State, a true scholar-warrior. An Armoured Corps officer and member of the NDA’s 41st Regular Course, General Shaibu possesses one of the most impressive academic portfolios in the military. He holds a Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering and multiple master’s degrees, including a Master’s in Security and Strategic Studies from the National Defence University, Washington D.C., and is an alumnus of Harvard Kennedy School.

His operational record is equally formidable, having served as Theatre Commander of Operation HADIN KAI, the military’s flagship counter-insurgency campaign. Respected for his intellect and discipline, he is expected to focus on re-equipping armoured units and prioritising troop welfare.

Air Vice Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke – Chief of Air Staff

The new Chief of Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, is a master aviator from Enugu State. With over 4,300 flying hours on aircraft ranging from the Dornier 228 to the Gulfstream 550, his technical expertise is unquestioned.

His career highlights include commanding the 307 Executive Airlift Group, which operates key intelligence platforms, and serving as Deputy Commandant of the NDA. Aneke, who holds advanced degrees in International Affairs and Political Economy, is expected to bring his deep operational and administrative experience to enhance the Air Force’s strike and reconnaissance capabilities.

Rear Admiral Idi Abbas – Chief of Naval Staff

Leading the Nigerian Navy is Rear Admiral Idi Abbas from Kano State. A seasoned maritime commander, he previously served as Flag Officer Commanding the Central Naval Command in Yenagoa, where he was credited with leading decisive operations against illegal oil bunkering and piracy in the Niger Delta.

His extensive experience in securing Nigeria’s vital economic assets in the maritime domain will be crucial in combating crude oil theft and safeguarding the nation’s waterways.

Major General Emmanuel Undiandeye – Chief of Defence Intelligence

Heading the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) is Major General Emmanuel Akomaye Parker Undiandeye from Cross River State. A Sandhurst-trained officer and an International Counter-Terrorism Fellow, he is one of the military’s most experienced intelligence professionals.

His career includes key international appointments, such as Deputy Chief of Assessments at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. He is expected to spearhead the integration of intelligence operations across all services and strengthen early-warning systems.

A Unified Command for a Nation at a Crossroads

This new team of service chiefs, with their diverse and extensive backgrounds, arrives at a critical juncture. The nation now looks to this unified command, under General Oluyede’s strategic direction, to bring their collective expertise to bear in securing Nigeria and ensuring the safety of its citizens.