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Today marks a significant moment for Nigeria’s security architecture: the handing-over and taking-over ceremony for our Service Chiefs. It is a day of respect for those who are stepping down, high hopes for those moving up, and renewed commitment to the people whose safety and peace remain at the heart of their mandate.

As we salute the outgoing Service Chiefs, we do so not in criticism but in appreciation. Under the leadership of General Christopher Gwabin Musa as Chief of Defence Staff, and his colleagues at Army, Navy, Air Force, and Defence Intelligence, progress was made in confronting insurgency, improving coordination, and redefining Nigeria’s defence posture. Their service came at a cost, but also bore visible results, more disciplined operations, deeper civil-military collaboration and the laying of groundwork for sustained reforms. Their legacies form the solid foundation upon which the incoming team will build upon.

At the same time, today is a moment to again extend my warm congratulations to the newly appointed Service Chiefs. We recognize that they inherit significant responsibility at a critical moment for the nation. Their charge is clear, to continue the fight against insecurity; to strengthen inter-service cooperation; to modernize logistics, intelligence, training, and to deepen public trust in the Armed Forces.

Over the past two years, the outgoing chiefs led by General Christopher Musa as Chief of Defence Staff, alongside the former Chief of Army Staff, Chief of Naval Staff and Chief of Air Staff, stood firm in a period of intensifying security challenges. They coordinated operations in the Northeast, responded to banditry in the Northwest, and tackled maritime and communal security threats. While no leader has solved every problem, each brought dedication, sacrifice, and professionalism to their office. Their efforts reshaped the way commands coordinate, they reinforced the principle that the military must not act alone but with strategic partners, civilians and other arms of government. For that, they deserve our sincere commendation.

Their tenure has also shown that leadership is more than issuing orders, it is about adaptation, capacity-building, and changing mindsets inside the military. They opened pathways to improved training, introduced new doctrines of civil-military engagement, and ensured that security forces remain answerable to democratic norms even while facing deeply entrenched threats. As they depart their roles, their successes and lessons remain part of Nigeria’s evolving security story.

Into this legacy now steps a new generation of service leaders, men appointed to steer Nigeria’s Armed Forces into its next chapter. Their credentials reflect years of service, leadership in difficult theatres, and readiness to respond to evolving threats.

Take for example, Lt. General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede, newly appointed Chief of Defence Staff. A soldier whose career spans over three decades, he served previously as Chief of Army Staff, and before that as Commander of the Infantry Corps. He commanded the 27 Task Force Brigade under Operation Hadin Kai in the Northeast. His record includes participation in international missions such as ECOMOG in Liberia and Operation Harmony IV in Bakassi.

Similarly, the new Chief of Army Staff, Major General W. Shaibu, brings to his role a wealth of operational experience, academic training, and proven leadership in combat theatres. His career reflects service across counter-insurgency operations and internal security zones.

The appointment of Air Vice-Marshal S.K. Aneke as Chief of Air Staff introduces fresh air leadership with strong professional credentials. Rear Admiral I. Abbas, now Chief of Naval Staff, brings deep naval command experience. And Major-General E.A.P. Undiendeye continues as Chief of Defence Intelligence, providing continuity in one of the most sensitive arms of national security.

Each of these new leaders inherits a country grappling with insurgency, banditry, maritime threats, and inter-communal insecurity. But they also inherit something invaluable: the experience, reforms, and goodwill earned by their predecessors, and with it, the trust of millions of Nigerians who expect more than promises.

As they formally take office today, the incoming Service Chiefs step into roles that demand vision, courage, and humility. Their mandate is not only to lead troops in battle, but to build systems that last such as improved welfare and training for soldiers, upgraded logistics, responsiveness to civilian communities and sustained emphasis on rules of engagement, human rights, and cooperation with local authorities.

We trust that their wealth of experience on the front lines, in training, in strategic planning will equips them to deliver on that mandate. We believe they will build on the gains of the past, while also adapting to new challenges.

Their success will not be measured solely by battles won, but by lives protected, confidence won and communities restored. If they uphold the highest standard of integrity, transparency and collaboration, these new leaders can elevate Nigeria’s defence architecture to new heights.

Today’s handing-over is not just symbolic. It is a renewal of commitment to the people of Nigeria. It is a promise that those entrusted with the highest military responsibilities will continue to serve with courage, professionalism and patriotism.

We salute the service of those who hand over their commands, and we welcome those who step up to lead. May the incoming Service Chiefs deliver on the trust placed in them by our nation. May their tenure usher in stronger security, deeper stability, and enduring peace for all Nigerians.

Dr. Awwal Abdullahi Aliyu,
Sarkin Yakin Kanya Babba

President, Nineteen Seventeen Northern Consensus Movement For PeaceUnityEmpowermentandDevelopmentInitiative (NSNCM).

Spokesperson Ministry of Defence Ministerial Standing Committee on Military Veterans Welfare
Deputy National Coordinator Retired Members of Nigerian Armed Forces

DCG Intergovernmental Affairs Strategy and Planing CJTF

DCG SPECIAL Duties Harmany Corps of Nigeria

The Director-General/CEO of Federal Institute of Industrial Research Oshodi, FIIRO,Dr.Jummai Tutuwa Adamu is among the leading professionals that will bag the prestigious Leadtimes Africa award come next month at the University of Lagos.
During the ceremony, Director General of FIIRO,will be presented with the prestigious Leadtimes Africa Researcher of the Year,for her effort in promoting indigenous raw materials, enhancing productivity and supporting Micro, Small,and Medium Enterprises (MSMES) in areas such as food preservation,green technology,pharmaceuticals, cosmetics,and biotechnology since she assumed office since 2022 by Late President Muhammadu Buhari.According to professor Buba S. Mshelia “Dr.Mrs Jummai Adamu Tutuwa continues to inspire transformation in Nigeria’s industrial research landscape, demonstrating the profound impact of science and technology on national development.”
Dr. Hon. Uriel Eze,founder and Group Chief Executive of UR9 Group will also be decorated with the prestigious Leadtimes Africa Businessman of the Year Award at the ceremony at University of Lagos.Hon.Dr.Uriel Eze has distinguished himself as an outstanding business industrialist and professional that has cut across different sectors of the economy including beverages, real estate and construction, interior Design, Agriculture, media, technologies, hospitality, energy, Fashion, logistics, security, and Asset Management, among others. As a multi-talented business tycoon, Eze has been overseeing the growth and expansion of the UR 9 brand from a start-up into one of the foremost premium luxury brands in the country.Professor Buba S. Mshelia, Chairman, Advisory Board of Leadtimes Africa said of the businessman: ” UR 9 Group is a diversified and fully integrated conglomerate whose Chief Executive has shown himself to be a serial entrepreneur and who has touched the lives of the Nigerian youths through his business activities across the country.”
To us in Leadtimes Africa Magazine, we are not surprised seeing him emerged as winner of the Leadtimes Africa Businessman of the Year.Others listed for Grand Leadership Prize for Integrity, Transparency and Accountability for Service include Dr. Azeez Abayomi Mustapha, CEO of AZ Logistics Limited;Executive Director of Aldate Business School, Port Harcourt, Professor Lawson O. Ihuigwe;CEO of Kwara State Procurement Agency, Mr. QS Raheem Abdulbaki; and the Group Managing Director/CEO of Trade and Tech, Engr.(Dr.) Abubakar Sadiq Mustapha,a 2023 winner of the Leadtimes Africa Businessman of the Year who is again nominated to serve as the Advisory Board member of Leadtimes Africa Magazine in view of his enormous contributions to the growth and expansion of Leadtimes Africa magazine over the years.

During the program, few eminent Nigerians will be decorated with honorary doctorate degree awards of Highstone Global University, Texas, USA and that of Prowess University, Delaware, USA.One of such is the Managing Director/CEO of Emmalex Nig Ltd, Engr.Emmanuel Oshia, who will be decorated with Doctor of Business Administration and Corporate Governance by the Highestone Global Texas,USA;the ceremony which will hold at the University of Lagos next month will also recognize the Chairman/CEO of Ehi Multi System Limited, Dr. Lucky Omokhodion who is poised to bag Doctor of Business Administration and Corporate Governance by Highestone Global University, Texas, USA among few others at the University of a Lagos next month.
Other prominent Professionals that are penciled down for honor by the Highstone Global University Texas, USA include Head of Health and Pharmaceutical Sectors, Jackson Etti & Edu, Mrs Chinyere Okorocha who is expected to bag Doctor of Public Healthcare Administration;Princess Layo Bakare Okeowo, CEO of FAE Limited;and Founder/CEO, Majeurs Holdings, Ms Demi Samonde who is listed for Doctor of Business Administration, among others.
During the program, the newly appointed Vice Chancellor of Highestone Global University, Texas, USA, Professor Engr. Theophilus Aku Ugah, Ph.D including the Africa Vice Chancellor of the institution will be in attendance, among other team from the University as the African Representative of the Prowess University, Delaware,USA who doubles as the Registrar/CEO of Institute of Art Management Professional Studies (I AMPS),Professor Prince Eze Nwauba will also be in attendance to decorate awardees of Prowess University, Delaware,USA respectively during the ceremony.
Grand Leadership Prize For Integrity, Transparency and Accountability for Service will be presented to deserving awardees by Professor Buba S. Mshelia, Advisory Board chairman of Leadtimes Africa Magazine.

In constant pursuit of delivering the benefits of Renewed Hope Agenda to the people, the Energy Commission Of Nigeria has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with UNIDACO Limited, London, for an initial €100 million investment in Nigeria’s energy sector.

Dr Mustapha Abdullahi, Director General of ECN who disclosed this said, “The signing, held at the House of Lords, London, during the Renewed Hope Global Dialogue (UK Edition), marks a major milestone in advancing Nigeria’s clean energy transition.”

According to him, “This partnership underscores our commitment to expanding renewable energy access, driving innovation, and strengthening Nigeria’s capacity to harness clean technologies.

“Moreover, it aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly on sustainable energy solutions as a catalyst for economic growth and development.

“This distinctive MoU was signed in the presence of dignitaries and investors of repute from Nigeria and across the world.

“Overall, this milestone reaffirms our resolve to deepen global partnerships that will accelerate Nigeria’s energy transformation. Together, we are charting a new course toward an inclusive, energy-secure, and prosperous nation built on innovation and collaboration. The DG, Energy Commission revealed.

The Kaduna State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has dismissed as null and void the purported expulsion of its Acting Chairman, Hon. Ahmed Tijjani Mustapha, and several other key officials of the party in the state.

In a statement issued on Monday, October 27, 2025, and signed by the State Publicity Secretary, Engr. Idris Musa, the party described the alleged expulsion as a desperate move by individuals who, according to the ADC, are not bona fide members of the party.

Engr. Musa stated that the individuals behind the purported expulsion are members of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Kaduna State but have been parading themselves as ADC members with the aim of hijacking the party’s structure in the state and across the North-West zone.

“We wish to inform all well-meaning and duly registered members of the ADC in Kaduna State to disregard the said expulsion, as it is considered null and void,” the statement said.

“The action appears to be a desperate attempt by individuals who are not members of the ADC but are struggling to take over the party under the guise of coalition partners. It’s either you are in the ADC or you are out,” the party added.

The statement further linked the alleged expulsion to a pending legal case — Suit No. FCT/HC/GAR/CV/383/2025 — filed at the FCT High Court in Abuja. The case reportedly challenges the dual membership status of former Kaduna State Governor Malam Nasir El-Rufai and others.

Engr. Musa noted that the move against the state leadership, including Hon. Ahmed Tijjani Mustapha, Engr. Idris Musa, Alhaji Suleiman Abdulkadir, and Barr. Danlami Dabai, was a “fight-back” by those affected by the legal action.

The statement urged ADC members across Kaduna State to remain calm and law-abiding while the matter is before the court.

“We will not join issues with these individuals, especially in view of the pending case at the FCT High Court in Abuja. Our party will continue to operate in accordance with its Constitution and principles, and we will not be swayed by the antics of desperate politicians,” it stated.

The ADC reaffirmed its commitment to internal democracy, rule of law, and the unity of its members in Kaduna State and beyond.

By Comrade Musa Mohammed Moonlight

Nigeria’s agricultural sector has seen significant improvements under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership, with various initiatives aimed at boosting food production, reducing reliance on imports, and promoting economic growth.

Malam Muhammad Rilwanu, the General Manager of Kaduna Agricultural Development Agency, has been instrumental in driving transformative reforms and rapid improvements in the state’s agricultural sector over the past two years.

Key Achievements:

• Mechanization Reforms: Introduced a lease-to-own equipment financing scheme, increasing tractor density and benefiting thousands of farmers.
• Increased Productivity: Average yields rose by 40-60% for major crops, with mechanization lowering production costs.
• Job Creation*: Trained over 50,000 operators and mechanics, creating 250,000 direct jobs in mechanization services.
• Private Sector Investment*: Attracted $500 million in private investments in mechanization services.

Initiatives and Partnerships:

• Tallafin Noma (A Koma Gona): Supported 69,000 smallholder farmers with quality maize seeds and agrochemicals.
• Agricultural Input Supply Support: Distributed over 500 trucks of free fertilizer to verified smallholder farmers.
• Agricultural Quality Assurance Centre (AQAC): Established in collaboration with Afrexim Bank to enhance produce quality and competitiveness.

Goals and Impact:

• Food Security*: Aims to reduce Nigeria’s food import bill and enhance food security.
• Economic Growth*: Contributed to Kaduna’s agricultural sector growth, with over ₦74 billion allocated in the 2025 budget.
• Sustainability*: Focuses on climate change adaptation, resilience, and agro-meteorology.

Under Malam Muhammad Rilwanu’s leadership, Kaduna Agricultural Development Agency has made significant strides in modernizing agriculture, empowering farmers, and driving economic growth.

…Seeks Support for Governor Uba Sani’s Re-election Bid

Former Kaduna Central lawmaker, Senator Shehu Sani, has cautioned Islamic clerics to be vigilant and wary of the vain promises and deceitful tactics often employed by politicians during election periods.

Speaking during an interactive session with Islamic scholars across the 23 local government areas of Kaduna, Senator Sani urged clerics to resist inducements and political manipulation aimed at winning their support for selfish political interests.

He, however, called on Islamic clerics across Kaduna State to support the re-election bid of Governor Uba Sani, whom he described as a leader committed to good governance and responsive to the needs of the people.

According to the former senator, Governor Uba Sani has demonstrated a high sense of responsibility and dedication to addressing the yearnings of citizens since assuming office nearly two years ago.

Senator Sani further encouraged the clerics to unite in identifying and presenting the major needs of the Muslim community—such as the renovation of mosques, establishment of Islamic schools, and support for orphanages—to the government in a structured and coordinated manner.

He warned religious leaders to beware of political figures who only seek their support during elections and neglect them thereafter.

“The era of deceit and the use-and-dump approach to Islamic clerics is over,” Senator Sani declared.

He appealed to the religious leaders to continue praying for Governor Uba Sani and to support his administration, describing the governor as a listening and visionary leader committed to the development of Kaduna State.

In their brief remarks, several Islamic clerics commended Senator Sani for taking the bold step to convene such a meeting, which they said exposed the deceitful tendencies of some politicians.

They also pledged to use their influence as mobilisers to support credible leaders with proven records of capacity and performance in future elections.

The Executive Governor of Katsina State, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has congratulated Prof. Mohammed Khalid Othman on his appointment as the substantive Vice Chancellor of the Federal University Dutsin-Ma (FUDMA).

In a press release issued by Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Katsina State, and made available to newsmen on Saturday.

Prof. Othman appointment was announced by the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the University’s Governing Council, His Excellency Ali Abubakar Jatau, following the 36th Special Meeting of the Council held at the Grand Amber Hotel and Suites, Dutse, Jigawa State.

Governor Radda described the appointment as a well-deserved recognition of Prof. Othman’s distinguished academic career and leadership record, noting that his vast experience as a scholar, researcher, and administrator will greatly benefit both the University and the wider education sector.

He commended the Governing Council for conducting a rigorous and transparent selection process, which saw Prof. Othman emerge from a pool of highly qualified candidates through merit and competence.

“Prof. Othman is a respected academic and an outstanding son of Katsina State whose contributions to agricultural research and higher education are widely acknowledged. His emergence as Vice Chancellor reflects excellence, integrity, and years of dedicated service,” the Governor said.

Governor Radda expressed confidence that under Prof. Othman’s leadership, FUDMA will witness stronger academic performance, improved research capacity, and deeper community engagement, in line with the University’s founding vision.

Prof. Othman, a proud son of Katsina State from Bindawa Local Government Area, is a renowned Agricultural Engineer and an alumnus of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, where he obtained his first, second, and third degrees. He has served in various capacities, including as Executive Director of the National Agricultural Extension Research and Liaison Services (NAERLS), ABU Zaria, and is currently a member of the ABU Governing Council representing the Senate.

Governor Radda assured the new Vice Chancellor of his administration’s continued support and collaboration with the University toward strengthening education, research, and innovation in the state.

“On behalf of the Government and the good people of Katsina State, I congratulate Prof. Mohammed Khalid Othman on his appointment as the new Vice Chancellor of the Federal University Dutsin-Ma. We pray for Allah’s guidance and wisdom as he leads the institution to greater excellence,” Governor Radda said.

By: Barrister Aminu Hussaini Sagagi

“Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s administration has marked two years of impactful leadership, transforming Kano State with notable progress. Barrister Aminu Hussaini Sagagi, Special Adviser on Justice and Constitutional Matters, highlights how AKY’s purposeful drive shifted Kano’s narrative from decline to dynamism, leaving a positive footprint across the state. “

When the chronicles of Kano’s modern history are written, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf (AKY) will be remembered as the leader who broke barriers, challenged complacency, and redefined what purposeful governance can achieve. In just two eventful years, the AKY administration has embarked on an unprecedented mission to rebuild, restore, and renew the ancient city — bulldozing through decades of neglect, obstacles and cynicism with a vision anchored on people-centered development.
Breaking the Mold: From Tradition to Transformation
Kano, the pride of Northern Nigeria and the region’s commercial heartbeat, had long grappled with urban decay, unemployment and institutional decline. Many saw the system as too entrenched to change. But Governor AKY came into office with a bulldozer’s resolve — committed to sweeping away stagnation and building a new Kano founded on transparency, inclusion and progress.
His mantra, “development against all odds,” has guided an administration focused not on politics, but on practical results that touch everyday lives.

Infrastructure Renewal: Roads, Bridges, and a Brighter Kano

Under Governor AKY’s leadership, infrastructure development has assumed new urgency. The Kano Urban Renewal Project continues to transform the metropolis through the reconstruction and expansion of key roads, modern roundabouts, and improved traffic management systems. But beyond roads, one of the administration’s most visible achievements is the widespread installation of solar-powered street lighting systems across major highways, inner streets, and communities. Across every road in the metropolis, the new lights have not only enhanced night-time aesthetics but have also boosted security and extended economic activity after dark, revitalizing nightlife and trade in a city once plunged into darkness. The Governor’s commitment to safety and visibility has made Kano’s nights brighter, indeed!

Education and Human Capital: Reviving Dreams, Rebuilding Institutions

No sector demonstrates AKY’s reformist spirit better than education. Recognizing that a society’s future lies in the strength of its learning institutions, the Governor launched a massive campaign to revitalize abandoned and closed tertiary and technical institutions across the state.
Campuses once left in ruins – from Audu Bako College of Agriculture to Kano State Polytechnic satellite campuses and skills acquisition centers – have been reopened, renovated, and re-equipped. Thousands of young people have returned to classrooms and workshops that had been silent for years.

Through these efforts, the administration has breathed life back into the state’s educational ecosystem, creating new pathways for youths’ empowerment, technical training and self-reliance.
Complementing this is the revival of scholarship programs and targeted investments in primary and secondary schools, ensuring that education remains accessible from the grassroots upward.

Restoring Order:
Combating Drug Abuse, Idleness, and Hooliganism

Governor AKY’s vision for a new Kano goes beyond physical renewal, it extends to the moral and social rebirth of its people. Confronted with the rising menace of drug abuse, youth idleness, hooliganism, and phone-snatching crimes, his administration has mounted an aggressive campaign to reclaim the streets and restore sanity.
Working hand-in-hand with security agencies, recently launched marshals, community leaders and the National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the State Government has intensified raids on drug hotspots, supported rehabilitation programs and promoted widespread public awareness on the dangers of substance abuse. Simultaneously, through the reopening of skills acquisition centers and targeted youth’s empowerment schemes, thousands of at-risk youths have been redirected from the streets into productive engagement.
The combined effect of improved street lighting, community policing and socio-economic intervention has drastically curtailed phone-snatching and gang-related violence, turning former hotspots of fear into safe and vibrant neighborhoods. This multi-layered approach to youth reform embodies the Governor’s belief that progress is meaningless if not accompanied by peace, discipline and hope.

Healthcare and Human Dignity

Governor AKY’s people-oriented governance extends deeply into the health sector. His administration has rehabilitated general hospitals and primary health centers, provided modern equipment and recruited medical personnel to fill critical gaps. The Free Medical Outreach Program, introduced in 2024, has delivered life-saving services to thousands of indigent residents – reinforcing the government’s belief that healthcare is a right, not a privilege.

Environmental Renewal and Urban Cleanliness

Just recently known for its waste-choked streets and blocked drainages, Kano has undergone a quiet environmental revolution. The revival of the Refuse Management and Sanitation Board (REMASAB) has restored discipline and hygiene to public spaces. Likewise, regular waste collection, re-greening projects and the rehabilitation of parks have improved urban living standards, while the city’s beautification drives are giving Kano a new and modern face.
Empowering the People: Youths, Women, and Enterprise
Governor AKY’s inclusive governance places ordinary citizens at the heart of progress. Through the Kano Empowerment and Skills Support Scheme, thousands of women, youths and artisans have received tools, equipment and grants to start or expand small businesses. From tailoring and welding to ICT and automotive training, the State’s renewed skills acquisition centers now serve as hubs of innovation – transforming job seekers into job creators.
Governance with Integrity and Accountability
Governor AKY’s administration stands out for its commitment to transparency and participatory governance. Financial prudence, open procurement processes and community consultations have restored public trust in leadership.
Traditional rulers, civil society, and youth representatives are now partners in planning and implementation, ensuring that policies reflect real community needs rather than elite preferences.

Defying the Odds, Defining a Legacy

The journey has not been without resistance – from political opposition to bureaucratic bottlenecks – yet, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has continued to bulldoze through challenges with focus and conviction. His results speak for themselves: a brighter city, safer streets, revived schools, empowered youths, cleaner environments and restored public trust.
Two years on, the message is clear – leadership anchored on sincerity and courage can indeed transform even the most complex societies.

A Vision Beyond Two Years
As Kano looks ahead, the foundations of a new era have been firmly laid. Governor AKY’s vision extends beyond his tenure — toward a state that thrives on knowledge, peace, and productivity. From the glow of new streetlights to the hum of reopened institutions, from the discipline of reformed youths to the smiles of empowered citizens, Kano’s transformation is real and visible.
The facts carry one enduring truth: when leadership bulldozes obstacles with sincerity and courage, transformation becomes inevitable.

Barrister Aminu Sagagi, SA Justice/Constitutional Matters sent this piece from Kano

In the annals of Nigeria’s military history, few officers have achieved what Lt. General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede has accomplished. His appointment as the new Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) marks not only a personal triumph but also a defining moment for the Nigerian Armed Forces. He is one of the very few Army officer in the country’s history to rise through every rank to the most EXPECTED full four-star General without skipping a single step. A remarkable proud heritage of the Infantry Corps, known for its courage and resilience.

General Oluyede’s steady rise through the ranks only proves his diligence and hard work. From the day he was commissioned as a young Second Lieutenant of the 39th Regular Course of the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1992, his career has reflected the true spirit of service, one built not on privilege, but on performance, integrity, and consistent excellence. His leadership journey has been marked by loyalty to the nation and an unrelenting drive to safeguard its territorial integrity.

Through decades of service, General Oluyede has distinguished himself across multiple commands and operations. From his days in the 27 Task Force Brigade under Operation Hadin Kai in the Northeast, where he led brave men into complex counter-insurgency operations to his tenure as Commander, Infantry Corps in Jaji, he has shown exceptional courage and tactical brilliance. His leadership on the frontlines has inspired troops, restored confidence in difficult terrains, and contributed immensely to the success of Nigeria’s internal security efforts.

General Oluyede’s career also reflects a deep understanding of global peacekeeping and multilateral defence relations. He has represented Nigeria with distinction in international operations, including ECOMOG missions in Liberia and Operation Harmony IV in Bakassi, where his calm resolve and professionalism earned respect among peers and superiors alike. His foresight and experience in multinational operations have reinforced Nigeria’s reputation as a regional stabilizing power.

Beyond his combat achievements, General Oluyede is a visionary reformer. He has consistently championed modernization within the Armed Forces, advocating for better intelligence systems, advanced technology, and synergy between the Army, Navy, and Air Force. His foresight on the changing face of modern warfare, where information and precision matter as much as firepower, places him among the nation’s most forward-thinking military minds.

Equally important is his strong belief in Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC), the principle that the military must work hand-in-hand with the people it protects. Under his guidance, troops have engaged in humanitarian support, community rebuilding, and local partnerships that bridge the gap between security forces and civilians. His leadership philosophy reflects not just command, but compassion.

As he assumes his new position as Chief of Defence Staff, there is a collective sense of optimism across the nation. General Oluyede’s record of honour, his calm disposition, and his tested leadership will certainly propel the armed forces into new heights, continuing from his predecessors gains and achievements. More so, Nigerians trust that his wealth of experience and humility will further strengthen inter-service coordination and consolidate national security gains.

Nigerians are confident that General Oluyede will not only uphold the proud traditions of the Nigerian Armed Forces but will also build on them to achieve even greater heights.

I hereby extend my heartfelt congratulations to Lt. General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede, Nigeria’s new Chief of Defence Staff. May his tenure bring renewed peace, stability, and progress to our beloved country. His rise is an inspiration and a reminder that dedication, courage, and integrity still define true leadership.

Dr. Awwal Abdullahi Aliyu
President, Nineteen Seventeen Northern Consensus Movement For PeaceUnityEmpowermentandDevelopmentInitiative (NSNCM).

Kigali, Rwanda — October 22, 2025

Former Nigerian Chief of Army Staff and ex-ambassador to the Republic of Benin, Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusuf Buratai (rtd) has called on African military leaders to strengthen interoperability and communication systems during peace time, emphasizing that effective collaboration should not begin only when conflicts erupt.

Buratai made this call while speaking during a panel session at the Land Forces Commanders Symposium (LFCS) 2025, held in Kigali, Rwanda, from October 20 to 22, 2025. The annual forum brought together senior army chiefs, defence officials, and strategic thinkers from across Africa and beyond to discuss the theme:

“Leveraging Land Forces Capabilities for Enhanced Implementation of Peace and Security Strategies.”

Hosted by the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF), the symposium deliberated on contemporary defence and security issues affecting Africa’s military. One of the sub-themes discussed by Gen Buratai is ‘Enhancing Interoperability among Land Forces in Africa and beyond,’ which explored the technical, procedural, and human dimensions necessary for joint military effectiveness.

Buratai’s Practical Reflections on Africa’s Security Cooperation

In his remarks, Buratai expressed appreciation to the Rwanda Defence Force for the invitation, recalling his last visit to Kigali in 2017 as Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff. Reflecting on his experiences, he stressed that Africa’s defence forces must establish mechanisms for rapid, reliable communication and coordination during peace, not only in crisis situations.

“We don’t have to wait until operations begin before we start communicating efficiently,” he noted. “There must be a deliberate effort to create seamless, continent-wide communication frameworks among our armies.”

Citing his experience as Commander of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF)—which comprises troops from Nigeria, Chad, Niger, Cameroon, and Benin Republic—Buratai highlighted that “Incompatibility of communication systems, disparities in training and doctrine, and non-standardized equipment often limit our collective effectiveness,” he said.
“We must harmonize training, doctrines, and communication standards under the auspices of the African Union and regional blocs like ECOWAS and SADC.”

Lessons from Past Peacekeeping Operations

Drawing on Nigeria’s experience in ECOMOG operations in Liberia and Sierra Leone, Buratai warned that fragmented logistics, communication gaps, and differing rules of engagement among allied forces create friction that undermines mission success.

He also referred to challenges faced in AMISOM and AU missions in Sudan, noting recurring issues in logistics coordination, medical evacuation, and unified command structures.

“The lesson is clear — interoperability must begin from peace time,” he stressed. “Once it is tested and institutionalized in peace, it transitions smoothly into operations.”

Strategic Vision for Africa’s Defence Collaboration

Buratai’s intervention aligned with earlier remarks by President Paul Kagame, who urged African leaders to “challenge assumptions” and develop a new culture of collaboration that transcends borders and bureaucratic barriers. Kagame emphasized that Africa’s security challenges demand shared responsibility and professional cooperation among armed forces.

Pne of the symposium’s moderators, Brig. Gen. Patrick Kuretwa, Director General of International Military Cooperation at Rwanda’s Ministry of Defence, described interoperability as the ability of allied militaries to act together coherently, efficiently, and effectively to achieve tactical and strategic objectives.

“This symposium is timely and very necessary,” Buratai said. “It challenges us to think strategically and act collectively to enhance peace and stability on our continent.”

About the Land Forces Commanders Symposium

The Land Forces Commanders Symposium (LFCS) is a continental platform that brings together African army chiefs and senior officers to discuss shared security priorities, exchange operational experiences, and develop coordinated frameworks for peace support and defense cooperation.

The 2025 edition, held in Kigali, featured high-level participation from East, West, Central, and Southern African militaries, as well as international partners. Discussions focused on Rethinking Land Operations in the Era of Drone Warfare, Promoting Bilateralism as a Complementary Option to Multilateralism to Achieve Peace and Security, among others is not only timely; but it is a must for African Land Forces and African-led security solutions in response to evolving continental securitychallenges.