Tinubu Unveils New Service Chiefs to Strengthen Nigeria’s Security Architecture
Story: Written by Uzuh Rita October 27,2025
President Bola Tinubu has approved a fresh leadership structure for the nation’s Armed Forces with the appointment of new service chiefs. The appointments are aimed at enhancing operational effectiveness and advancing coordinated security strategies across all branches of the military. Below are key profiles of the newly appointed senior officers.
Olufemi Oluyede — Chief of Defence Staff
Lieutenant General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede assumes the top military role after nearly four decades of service in the Nigerian Army. Born on June 21, 1968, in Ikere-Ekiti, Ekiti State, he joined the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1987 as part of the 39th Regular Course and was commissioned in 1992.
He holds academic qualifications in Economics and has completed several strategic leadership programmes, including at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru. His previous command roles include serving as Chief of Army Staff.
Oluyede’s mandate involves leading joint forces coordination, strengthening intelligence integration, and enhancing combat readiness to tackle evolving national security threats.
He is married and enjoys sports such as basketball and volleyball.
Waidi Shaibu — Chief of Army Staff
Major General Waidi Shaibu, born on December 18, 1971, in Olamaboro, Kogi State, brings a distinguished blend of operational experience and advanced academic training. He joined the NDA in 1989, graduating from the 41st Regular Course and commissioning into the Armour Corps in 1994.
His extensive education includes degrees in Mechanical Engineering, Public Administration, Strategic Studies, Security and Strategic Studies, along with a leadership qualification from Harvard Kennedy School.
Shaibu has commanded multiple operations including Lafiya Dole and Hadin Kai and has served in peacekeeping missions in Sudan and Liberia. He aims to prioritise troop welfare, logistics enhancement, and improved armoured capabilities within the Army.
Sunday Kelvin Aneke — Chief of Air Staff
Air Vice Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke takes charge of the Nigerian Air Force with over 4,300 flight hours to his credit. Born on February 20, 1972, in Makurdi, Benue State, he hails from Udi LGA in Enugu State. He joined the NDA in 1988 through the 40th Regular Combatant Course and was commissioned in 1993.
His command roles include leading the 307 Executive Airlift Group and holding top operational and policy positions at Air Force Headquarters. He holds degrees in Physics, International Affairs and Diplomacy, and Political Economy, alongside aviation safety certification from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in the United States.
Aneke’s leadership focus involves expanding air combat capabilities, improving flight safety, and strengthening training systems.
Idi Abbas — Chief of Naval Staff
Rear Admiral Idi Abbas, appointed as Nigeria’s top naval officer, boasts over 30 years of maritime defence expertise. Born on September 20, 1969, in Kano State, he is a member of the 40th NDA Regular Course and was commissioned in 1992.
His previous roles include commanding the Central Naval Command in Yenagoa, where he led operations against piracy, illegal oil bunkering, and pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta. His agenda is expected to focus on maritime safety, fleet expansion, and protecting national oil and gas assets.
Emmanuel Akomaye Parker Undiandeye — Chief of Defence Intelligence
Major General Emmanuel Undiandeye is one of the military’s leading intelligence professionals. Born on September 2, 1968, in Cross River State, he trained at both the Nigerian Defence Academy and the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst, United Kingdom.
He has served in various intelligence and peacekeeping roles, including at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. He holds degrees in History and Strategic Security Studies and is certified in international counter-terrorism.
His principal task involves strengthening intelligence coordination, improving early-warning systems, and enabling intelligence-driven joint operations against security threats nationwide.
The newly appointed service chiefs are expected to work collaboratively to reinforce Nigeria’s defence posture, improve inter-agency synergy, and confront ongoing security challenges with innovation and discipline.
