Anthony Atolagbe, a retired major general and former commander of Operation Safe Haven, has commended President Bola Tinubu for the shakeup carried out in the military leadership amid worsening security challenges.
Earlier on Friday, Tinubu relieved Christopher Musa of his position as the chief of defence staff (CDS) and appointed Olufemi Oluyede, the immediate past chief of army staff, as his replacement.
The president also named Waidi Shaibu as the new chief of army staff and approved fresh appointments for the heads of the navy and the air force.
Speaking on Channels Television’s ‘Politics Today’ programme, Atolagbe, who also served as director of peacekeeping operations in the Nigerian Army, said the president’s action showed courage and respect for professional progression within the military.
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“This is a very bold step. It’s going to make the military align properly with procedures and the necessary steps that ensure smooth career progression,” he said.
“When officers overstay in certain positions, it dims the light of those coming behind. But this president has done something remarkable. I know the system will be quite excited by this development.”
When asked whether Tinubu had retained some senior officers for political reasons, the retired general neither confirmed nor denied it.
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He explained instead that the appointments were based on merit and experience.
“They fit appropriately where they are right now,” he said, adding, “Career progression allows for continuity in ongoing operations across the country.”
Atolagbe said the newly appointed service chiefs are familiar with Nigeria’s security landscape, having served in frontline operations.
“Both the chief of army staff and the chief of defence staff are officers coming directly from the theatre,” he added.
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“The CDS is an infantry officer, while the COAS is an armoured officer. This alignment is a proper step in strengthening our security structure.”
The changes in the nation’s military leadership came weeks after rumours of a botched coup plot—a claim denied by the military authorities.
