President Bola Tinubu has approved a major shake-up in the leadership of the Nigerian Armed Forces, relieving General Christopher Musa of his position as Chief of Defence Staff and appointing new Service Chiefs.

According to a statement issued on Friday by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, the changes are part of efforts to strengthen the country’s national security architecture.

The statement, titled “Tinubu Changes Service Chiefs,” announced General Olufemi Oluyede as the new Chief of Defence Staff, replacing Musa.

It added that Major-General W. Shaibu has been appointed Chief of Army Staff, Air Vice Marshal S.K. Aneke is now the Chief of Air Staff, while Rear Admiral I. Abbas takes over as Chief of Naval Staff. The Chief of Defence Intelligence, Major-General E.A.P. Undiendeye, retains his position.

“The President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, expresses his profound appreciation to the outgoing Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and the other Service Chiefs for their patriotic service and dedicated leadership,” the statement read in part.

Tinubu urged the newly appointed Service Chiefs to justify the confidence reposed in them by demonstrating professionalism, vigilance, and unity in the discharge of their duties.

All appointments take immediate effect.