In a significant step towards revitalizing the Nigerian Army’s (NA) operational effectiveness, the newly appointed Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has pledged to adopt an inclusive leadership style to foster collaboration and innovation across all levels of command.
General Oluyede made this commitment on Monday, December 9, 2024, during his address to Principal Staff Officers at the Army Headquarters, following the Regimental Quarter Guard ceremony that marked the formal conclusion of his assumption of office as the 24th COAS.
In a statement by Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, Director of Army Public Relations, the COAS expressed his appreciation to officers and soldiers of the NA for their support and dedication during the burial of his predecessor, the late Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, whose service to the nation he described as exemplary.
General Oluyede emphasized the critical need for innovative thinking in addressing the nation’s evolving security challenges. He urged commanders to develop creative strategies to combat terrorism, insurgency, and other emerging threats effectively.
“Security threats are dynamic, and the Nigerian Army must stay ahead of the curve. I challenge all commanders to embrace innovation as a tool for finding lasting solutions to the security challenges we face,” he said.
Reflecting on his recent visit to troops under the Joint Task Force Operation HADIN KAI in the North East, the COAS assured personnel of his commitment to providing necessary support and boosting morale to ensure the success of their mission to end terrorism in the region.
The Chief of Administration, Major General Ohwonigho Akpor, described the event as a solemn regimental procedure. He explained that the previous Nigerian Army flag was retired to the NA Museum for safekeeping, rather than being presented to the outgoing COAS, as a symbolic gesture of remembrance for his command of the Army.
As General Oluyede takes the helm, the Nigerian Army is poised to embrace a renewed approach to addressing security challenges, with a focus on inclusivity, innovation, and operational excellence.
