Tinubu Replaces Military Chiefs Amid Coup Rumours and Defence Reforms

By Naija Enquirer Staff

Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reshuffled the leadership of the Armed Forces, appointing new Service Chiefs in what the government describes as part of efforts to strengthen national security. The changes come amid swirling speculation online about a failed coup attempt claims that the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has firmly dismissed as “false and malicious.”

A Shake-Up at the Top

In a statement released by the Presidency, General Olufemi Oluyede was appointed Chief of Defence Staff, replacing General Christopher Musa. Major-General W. Shaibu is the new Chief of Army Staff, Air Vice Marshal S.K. Aneke takes over as Chief of Air Staff, and Rear Admiral I. Abbas becomes Chief of Naval Staff. Major-General E.A.P. Undiendeye retains his position as Chief of Defence Intelligence.

President Tinubu, in a message of appreciation to the outgoing chiefs, thanked them for their “patriotic service and dedicated leadership,” urging the new appointees to “justify the confidence reposed in them by enhancing professionalism and vigilance across the armed forces.” All appointments, according to the statement, take immediate effect.

Rumours and Reactions

The announcement quickly fuelled debate online. Some social media users linked the reshuffle to alleged coup plots, claiming that growing discontent within the military influenced the President’s decision. Political commentator Professor Epum Michael suggested on X (formerly Twitter) that the move was “a precautionary response to whispers of dissatisfaction among military ranks,” alleging that Tinubu “promoted only those perceived to be loyal.”

Others dismissed the rumours, arguing that the reshuffle was driven by the need to strengthen counterterrorism and improve coordination. User @BettorsCompanion wrote that “the changes were more likely due to the fight against banditry and insecurity,” noting that international partners, especially the United States, had been urging Nigeria to improve human rights practices in conflict zones.

The Defence Headquarters has denied any coup-related motive. In a statement by Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information, the military described the reports as “false, malicious, and intended to cause unnecessary tension.” According to the DHQ, the cancellation of this year’s Independence Day parade — cited in the rumours — was due to Tinubu’s diplomatic travels and ongoing military operations in conflict-prone regions.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain loyal to the Constitution and the democratically elected government,” the statement read. “Democracy is forever.”

Reforming Command and Accountability

The leadership shake-up coincides with efforts in the National Assembly to reform the Armed Forces Act, aimed at strengthening command structure and accountability within the military. The proposed amendment, sponsored by Hon. Aminu Balele, Hon. Midala Usman, and Hon. Daniel Asama, seeks to modernise Nigeria’s defence laws to reflect global best practices.

According to Hon. Usman, the reform will “clarify command responsibilities, enhance operational efficiency, and reinforce civilian oversight over the military.” The bill, if passed, will reaffirm the President’s constitutional authority as Commander-in-Chief while granting the Chief of Defence Staff “general superintendence” over inter-service coordination — a move analysts say could improve coherence within Nigeria’s security architecture.

Security Challenges Ahead

The changes in military leadership come as Nigeria continues to grapple with multiple security challenges — from insurgency in the North-East and banditry in the North-West, to separatist violence and piracy in other regions.

Security expert Dr. Uche Nnaji says, “Leadership changes alone don’t solve deep structural challenges, but they can signal new energy and a chance to realign the armed forces with national priorities.”

For now, the Nigerian military insists that democracy remains stable and that the country’s security strategy is evolving — not unravelling.