A former Commander of Operation Safe Haven, Major General Anthony Atolagbe (rtd), has praised President Bola Tinubu for the recent overhaul of the nation’s military leadership amid ongoing security challenges.
On Friday, President Tinubu dismissed the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and appointed the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, as his successor. The President also named Major General Waidi Shaibu as the new Chief of Army Staff, alongside new appointments for the heads of the Air Force and Navy.
Speaking on Politics Today, Atolagbe — who also served as Director of Peacekeeping Operations in the Nigerian Army — described the President’s decision as both bold and necessary, saying it would reinvigorate the military structure and restore balance in officers’ career progression.
“This is a very bold step; it will help the military align properly with procedures and ensure fairness in the career advancement of officers. When some officers overstay in certain positions, they block opportunities for others. But this President has done something remarkable. I believe the system will be quite excited about this development,” he said.
When asked whether Tinubu made special considerations by retaining certain senior officers, Atolagbe neither confirmed nor denied the speculation. Instead, he maintained that the new appointees were chosen on merit and according to the requirements of their positions.
“They are well suited to their current roles. Career progression ensures continuity in the ongoing military operations across the country,” he explained.
He further noted that both the new Chief of Defence Staff and the Chief of Army Staff possess strong operational experience, having served directly in conflict zones.
“The Chief of Defence Staff is an infantry officer, while the Chief of Army Staff is from the armoured corps. This balance demonstrates a thoughtful and strategic approach to leadership placement,” Atolagbe added.