By Nkechi Eze
The Armed Forces of Nigeria on Thursday, October 30, 2025, witnessed a historic transition of command as General Christopher Gwabin Musa, OFR, formally handed over leadership to the newly appointed Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Lieutenant General Olusola Oluyede, in a solemn and dignified ceremony held at the Defence Headquarters, Abuja.
The event, which marked the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter for the Nigerian military, drew attendance from the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Principal Staff Officers from Defence and Service Headquarters, Commandants of military institutions, senior officers, veterans, and members of the media.
In his valedictory address, General Musa expressed profound gratitude to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his moral and material support to the military during his tenure. He described the President’s dedication to peace and national development as an “unwavering quest that demands collective resilience and sacrifice.”
“We bear a heavy load on our shoulders to assist the President in realizing his noble desires for our great nation. It may seem difficult, but success is ahead,” General Musa stated.
The outgoing CDS acknowledged the steadfast support of the National Assembly, the Office of the National Security Adviser, and the Honourable Minister of Defence for fostering a united and development-oriented defence sector. He also commended his colleagues, past and present Service Chiefs for their professionalism, teamwork, and commitment to the joint operational goals of the Armed Forces.
General Musa paid glowing tribute to officers, soldiers, ratings, airmen, and airwomen, whom he described as “true heroes whose courage and dedication define the strength of the Nigerian military.” He also extended appreciation to intelligence and security agencies, traditional and religious leaders, and his family for their support and sacrifices throughout his service years.
Bowing out with optimism, he urged all personnel to remain steadfast and loyal under the new leadership, assuring them that the Armed Forces were in capable hands.
“As I hand over to Lieutenant General O.O. Oluyede, a seasoned commander, a patriot, and an officer of impeccable credentials, I am confident in the future of our Armed Forces. Give him the same loyalty, cooperation, and dedication you gave me. The task ahead may be demanding, but with unity and commitment, greater successes lie ahead.”
In his inaugural remarks, the new Chief of Defence Staff, Lieutenant General Olusola Oluyede, expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the confidence reposed in him, pledging total loyalty to the Constitution, the President, and the Nigerian people.
“I am sincerely grateful to Almighty God for the grace and privilege to serve our nation in this capacity,” he said, noting that he fully recognizes the weight of responsibility that comes with leading the Armed Forces.
General Oluyede commended his predecessor, General Musa, for his visionary leadership, particularly in enhancing joint operations, interagency cooperation, and personnel welfare.
“Your tenure was marked by clear vision and commitment to building a professional, adaptive, and people-oriented Armed Forces. Posterity will remember you positively,” he noted.
The new CDS pledged to build on these achievements by strengthening synergy among the Services, advancing intelligence-driven operations, and deepening collaboration with security and law enforcement agencies to restore and sustain peace across Nigeria.
He emphasized that his administration would be anchored on professionalism, discipline, innovation, and accountability, with a renewed focus on the welfare and motivation of military personnel and their families.
“We shall continue to advocate improved welfare, housing, medical support, and training opportunities. We will also invest in the moral and psychological well-being of our troops and ensure that their sacrifices are recognized and rewarded,” he stated.
General Oluyede reaffirmed his commitment to national defence, stability, and unity, pledging to lead the Armed Forces with integrity, courage, and fairness.
“Our mission to safeguard the nation is a collective responsibility. I pledge to lead with integrity, courage, and fairness, and together, we shall uphold the proud traditions of the Nigerian Armed Forces and advance the cause of peace, security, and national unity,” he concluded.
The ceremony culminated in the signing of the handover notes, the decoration of the new CDS, inspection of the quarter guard, and group photographs with principal staff and commanders. all visual affirmations of the smooth transition.
