Why security chiefs were sacked -Tinubu

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has released a personal statement after approving changes in the hierarchy of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

The presidency had earlier announced the sacking of service chiefs, including the Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa.

In a statement after sacking service chiefs, President Tinubu explained that the decision is to further strengthen the national security architecture.

Tinubu made this known in a statement issued via his X handle @officialABAT on Friday, October 24, 2025.

“General Olufemi Oluyede is appointed Chief of Defence Staff, Major-General W. Shaibu becomes Chief of Army Staff, Air Vice Marshal S.K. Aneke is Chief of Air Staff, and Rear Admiral I. Abbas is the new Chief of Naval Staff, while Major-General E.A.P. Undiendeye retains his role as Chief of Defence Intelligence.”

Tinubu appreciated General Christopher Musa and the outgoing Service Chiefs for their selfless service and dedicated leadership.

“I charge the new Service Chiefs to deepen professionalism, vigilance, and unity within our Armed Forces as they serve our nation with honour,” he wrote.

Four new service chiefs have been appointed, including General Olufemi Oluyede as Chief of Defence Staff and Major General W. Shaibu as Chief of Army Staff.

The move signals a strategic recalibration of the Armed Forces after alleged coup plots, with only the Chief of Defence Intelligence retaining his position.