In an important leadership update, Major General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede has assumed the role of Acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS) for the Nigerian Army. Appointed by President Bola Tinubu on October 30, Major General Oluyede will serve as the head of the Army until Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, who is currently undergoing medical treatment overseas, returns to resume his duties.

Major General Oluyede comes into this role with decades of military experience. Previously, he served as the Commander of the elite Infantry Corps in Jaji, Kaduna—a role that has prepared him well for his new responsibilities. At 56, Oluyede has a well-respected career within the Nigerian Army, beginning his service in 1987, and was promoted to the rank of Major-General in 2020.

Oluyede and General Lagbaja share a long professional history; they were both members of the Nigerian Defence Academy’s 39th Regular Course and were coursemates since their early military days. His previous assignments include Platoon Commander, Company Commander, Staff Officer in the Guards Brigade, and Commandant at the Amphibious Training School.

A dedicated military leader, Oluyede is also a family man, with a wife and three children. His experience and long-standing commitment to the Army bring reassurance and stability to his temporary leadership as Acting COAS, supporting the Nigerian Army through this period of transition.