Maj.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede has made history as the first officer to assume the role of Acting Chief of Army Staff in the Nigerian Army.
President Bola Tinubu appointed him on Wednesday to fill in for Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, who’s been on medical leave for about a month, receiving treatment abroad.
Lagbaja has been away on medical leave for about a month in an undisclosed hospital abroad and is said to be recuperating.
In his remarks at the event, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, described the appointment of Oluyede as an unusual happening in the history of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
Musa said taking over of leadership of the Army by an Acting COAS was the first “because of the unusual circumstances at the moment”.
“The event today is something that is new, that has never happened in the history of the Armed Forces.
“Our brother and friend went for medical check-up, and it is our prayers that he will take the time to recuperate and come back.
“The President and I met with the authorities and decided and directed and appointed an acting Chief of Army Staff with the full power to lead the army until the President decides otherwise.
“But for us as professionals, we have to continue with our task ahead.
“No doubt, based on the challenges we have in the country, and the wisdom of the President, Commander-in-Chief, that today we present the authority to the Acting Chief of Army Staff for him to have full control and command of the Nigerian Army,” he said.
The CDS 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).
In his response, the Acting COAS thanked President Bola Tinubu for finding him worthy to take charge of the Army.
Oluyede said his appointment as Acting COAS was simply the right thing to do to enable Lagbaja to take sufficient time to get necessary medical attention and recuperate.
