(DDM) – In an unexpected national security move, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has replaced Nigeria’s top military service chiefs, triggering widespread speculation over the motive behind the abrupt overhaul of the nation’s defence leadership.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the new appointments affect the entire command structure of the Nigerian Armed Forces, with immediate effect.
The presidency announced the changes late Thursday, describing them as part of efforts to “strengthen the country’s security architecture.”
Under the new arrangement, General Olufemi Oluyede becomes the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), replacing General Christopher Musa. Major-General W. Shaibu has been appointed the new Chief of Army Staff, while Air Vice-Marshal S.K. Aneke assumes the position of Chief of Air Staff. Rear Admiral I. Abbas now heads the Nigerian Navy as the Chief of Naval Staff.
According to a statement released by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Major-General E.A.P. Undiendeye will continue to serve as Chief of Defence Intelligence, the only senior officer retained in his position.
Security experts told DDM that the scale and timing of the reshuffle suggest more than a routine military adjustment.
The move comes amid growing security concerns across the country and unconfirmed reports of internal tension within the armed forces.
Some sources within the Defence Headquarters hinted that the president’s action might have been prompted by intelligence reports indicating possible disloyalty among certain senior officers.
Though government officials have not confirmed any coup-related threats, the atmosphere within the security establishment remains tense.
Observers also link the shake-up to Nigeria’s deteriorating security situation. In recent months, armed banditry, insurgency in the North-East, and separatist tensions in the South-East have worsened, with critics accusing the old service chiefs of losing grip on command effectiveness.
Analysts note that General Oluyede’s appointment as Chief of Defence Staff signals Tinubu’s preference for experienced field officers with a reputation for operational discipline. Oluyede, a veteran commander, previously led major counter-insurgency operations in the North-East and has been credited with introducing modern combat strategies into troop training.
However, critics argue that the frequent turnover of service chiefs since 2015 reflects deeper structural instability within Nigeria’s defence system.
They contend that leadership changes, without addressing issues of funding, logistics, and welfare, may have limited impact on national security outcomes.
A senior DDM correspondent in Abuja reported that opposition figures have described the president’s decision as “reactionary” and “politically motivated,” alleging that it may be part of a broader plan to consolidate control ahead of the 2027 elections.
In a brief reaction, a presidency source told DDM that President Tinubu remains focused on ensuring “loyalty, professionalism, and operational efficiency” in the armed forces. The source dismissed claims of a coup scare, insisting that the new appointments were made strictly on merit and national interest.
Public reactions have been divided. While some Nigerians welcomed the overhaul as a bold move to restore confidence in the military, others questioned the secrecy surrounding the process and the absence of prior consultation with the National Assembly.
Meanwhile, the Defence Headquarters has pledged full cooperation with the new service chiefs and urged officers to maintain discipline and unity.
DDM analysis indicates that this marks one of the most sweeping military leadership changes in recent years, potentially reshaping the security and political landscape of Africa’s most populous nation.
As Nigeria faces mounting challenges, from terrorism to economic instability, all eyes are now on the new service chiefs to determine whether this shake-up represents a genuine reform or merely another episode in the country’s recurring cycle of military politics.