President Bola Tinubu has promoted Acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Olufemi Oluyede to the rank of Lieutenant General.
This promotion, confirmed by sources at the Presidential Villa, was announced on Tuesday and follows Oluyede’s recent appointment as Acting COAS. If confirmed by the Senate, Oluyede will assume the role permanently, officially replacing Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja.
The promotion elevates Oluyede from Major General to Lieutenant General, only days after his appointment. Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga confirmed Oluyede’s role on October 30, 2024, following widespread rumors about the health of Lagbaja, who is reportedly on medical leave. The Defense Headquarters has refuted claims of Lagbaja’s death, clarifying that he is currently indisposed.
Onanuga stated, “Oluyede will serve in an acting capacity until the return of the substantive Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja.”
Before this appointment, Oluyede was the Commander of the Nigerian Army’s Infantry Corps in Jaji, Kaduna. At 56, he shares a long-standing military history with Lagbaja as both were members of the 39th Regular Course, beginning their service as commissioned officers in 1992. Oluyede reached the rank of Major General in September 2020.
Oluyede has extensive command experience, having served in roles such as Platoon Commander, Adjutant at the 65 Battalion, Company Commander at the 177 Guards Battalion, Staff Officer in the Guards Brigade, and Commandant at the Amphibious Training School. His operational record includes participation in the ECOMOG Mission in Liberia, Operation HARMONY IV in Bakassi, and Operation HADIN KAI in Northeast Nigeria, where he commanded the 27 Task Force Brigade.
For his distinguished service, Oluyede has received several honors, including the Corps Medal of Honour, the Grand Service Star, and recognition from the National Institute.