Tinubu Did Something Remarkable With Military Shake-Up – Gen. Atolagbe
A retired military officer and former Commander of Operation Safe Haven, Major General Anthony Atolagbe (rtd), has commended President Bola Tinubu for his recent major shake-up in the Nigerian Armed Forces, describing the move as a bold and strategic step toward revitalising the nation’s security architecture.
President Tinubu, on Friday, approved the replacement of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, with the then Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede. The President also appointed Major General Waidi Shaibu as the new Chief of Army Staff, alongside new service chiefs for the Air Force and Navy.
Speaking in an interview with journalists on Saturday, General Atolagbe said the President’s decision reflected “decisive leadership and a deep understanding of the current security dynamics in the country.”
According to him, the reshuffle could inject fresh energy, ideas, and renewed commitment into the armed forces, which have been battling terrorism, banditry, and other forms of insecurity across the country.
“What President Tinubu has done is remarkable. It takes courage and foresight to make such major changes at a time like this. The new appointments show that the President is not afraid to take tough decisions in the interest of national security,” Atolagbe said.
He expressed confidence in the capabilities of the newly appointed service chiefs, describing them as “tested officers with proven records of professionalism and operational competence.”
The retired general urged the new military leadership to build on the successes of their predecessors, strengthen inter-service collaboration, and prioritise intelligence-driven operations.
“The fight against insecurity requires synergy among all security agencies. The new chiefs must also work closely with communities to restore trust and confidence in the military’s operations,” he added.
General Atolagbe also advised the Federal Government to provide the armed forces with adequate funding, equipment, and welfare support to enable them to deliver on their constitutional mandates effectively.
He expressed optimism that with the new leadership in place, Nigeria could witness improved security coordination and a renewed push to defeat insurgents and criminal elements threatening the nation’s peace and stability.
