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Biography of Lieutenant General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede, Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff

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Biography of Lieutenant General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede, Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff

The current Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) appointed by President Bola Tinubu is Lieutenant General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede. He assumed office on October 24, 2025, succeeding General Christopher Musa.

Biography of Lieutenant General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede

Lieutenant General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede is a highly decorated Nigerian Army officer with a distinguished career spanning nearly four decades. His appointment as the Chief of Defence Staff follows a period where he served as the Chief of Army Staff.

Early Life and Education

  • Date of Birth: June 21, 1968
  • State of Origin: Ikere-Ekiti, Ikere Local Government Area, Ekiti State, South-west Nigeria.
  • Military Training: He was admitted into the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) as a member of the 39th Regular Course in 1987 and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant into the Infantry Corps of the Nigerian Army in 1992.
  • Academic Qualifications: He holds a Bachelor’s and a Master’s Degree in Economics from the Nigerian Defence Academy, among other qualifications. He is also an alumnus of the prestigious National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), having completed the Senior Executive Course.

Military Career and Key Appointments

Lt. Gen. Oluyede has held several crucial command, instructional, and staff appointments throughout his service:

  • Command Experience: He has led counter-insurgency operations in the North East, notably as the Commander of the 27 Task Force Brigade under Operation HADIN KAI.
  • Key Appointments: His roles have included Platoon Commander, Company Commander, Staff Officer at the Guards Brigade, and Commandant of the Amphibious Training School.
  • Prior Service Chief Role: Before his elevation to CDS, he served as the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) from October 2024 to October 2025.
  • International Experience: He has participated in international peacekeeping missions, including the ECOWAS Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) in Liberia and Operation HARMONY IV in Bakassi.

Honours and Mandate

  • Rank: He attained the rank of Major General in September 2020 and was later promoted to Lieutenant General.
  • Decorations: His honours include the Corps Medal of Honour, Grand Service Star, Field Command Medal, Field Training Medal, and the Chief of Army Staff Commendation Award.
  • Role as CDS: As the Chief of Defence Staff, he is the professional head of the Nigerian Armed Forces, responsible for coordinating the strategic operations of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, with a mandate to enhance synergy and address emerging security challenges across the nation.

LIEUTENANT GENERAL O.O OLUYEDE (N/9318) NAM CMH GSS psc mni FCM FCMH TSM COM CCA

1. Lieutenant General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede was born on 21 June 1968 in Ikere-Ekiti Town, and hails from Ikere Local Government Area of Ekiti State. He attended Holy Trinity Primary School, Ikere-Ekiti, and proceeded to Christ’s School, Ado-Ekiti, for his secondary education. Thereafter, he gained admission into the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1987 as a member of 39 Regular Course. On completion of his cadet training, he was granted Regular Combatant Commission on 19 December 1992 in the rank of second lieutenant with seniority in the same rank effective 12 September 1987. He is of the Infantry Corps. He has risen in his noble profession to the rank of lieutenant general and became the 29th indigenous Chief of Army Staff, Nigerian Army, first in acting capacity with effect from 30 October 2024 and substantively, in November 2024.

2. In the course of his meritorious military career, he has attended several courses both at home and abroad, where he distinguished himself creditably. Some of these courses include the Young Officers’ Course (Infantry) and Regimental Signal Officers’ Course, as well as Commanding Officers’ Course, all at the Nigerian Army School of Infantry, Jaji. He also attended the United Nations Logistics Officers’ Course at the Kofi Annan International Peace Keeping Centre, Ghana and the United Nations Military Observers’ Course at the now renamed Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre, Jaji, among others. Similarly, he attended the prestigious Armed Forces Command and Staff College Jaji for his Junior and Senior Staff Courses, and he is a member of the national institute and a proud alumnus of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), where he did his Senior Executive Course. To further hone his leadership skills, he attended the Strategic Leadership Course at the Nigerian Defence Academy. Despite the rigours of military profession, Lieutenant General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede made time out to develop and improve his intellectual standing. He holds both a Bachelor and Master of Arts Degree in Economics from the Nigerian Defence Academy, among others. He has also attended and participated in several workshops, seminars and conferences in the course of his career, which contributed to preparing him for the highest appointment in the Nigerian Army.

3. Lieutenant General Oluyede has served in several formations, units and training institutions where he held command, staff and instructional appointments within his illustrious years of service. Some of these appointments include Platoon Commander and Company Second in Command in 65 Mechanised Battalion and 177 Guards Battalion, respectively. He was Platoon Commander and later Officer Commanding in 2 Amphibious Battalion. For his initial instructional experience, he was an instructor and later Senior Instructor at the Nigerian Defence Academy. He held the appointment of Staff OfficerGrade 1 in Charge of Personnel and Welfare Services as well as Logistics and Operations at different times while serving at Headquarters Joint Task Force (Operation RESTORE HOPE) and Headquarters 82 Division, respectively. He also served as Deputy Director of Examinations at Headquarters Training and Doctrine Command. He was Chief of Staff at Headquarters 13 Brigade before attending the Senior Executive Course at NIPSS. He was appointed Deputy Chief of Staff Civil-Military Cooperation at Headquarters 1 Division and later Director at Army Headquarters Department of Army Standard and Evaluation. He was Commandant of Amphibious Training School. He was appointed Commander 27 Task Force Brigade under Operation LAFIYA DOLE in the North East Theatre, from where he was made the Acting Commander Sector 2 in the same theatre. On his promotion to the rank of Major General, he was appointed substantive Commander Sector 2 Operation LAFIYA DOLE. Thereafter, he was posted to the Nigerian Army Resource Centre and appointed Senior Research Fellow, after which he was moved to the Army Headquarters Department of Army Policy and Plans and appointed Director Plans. After a brief stint at the Army Headquarters, he was appointed the General Officer Commanding 6 Division. He was later posted to the Office of the Chief of Army Staff, Directorate of Inspection and Compliance and appointed the Director. He joined the privileged few who rose to command the elite Infantry Corps before his appointment as the Acting and later the Substantive Chief of Army Staff in November 2024.

4. The seasoned Infantry General has also participated in a number of operations, both home and abroad. His posting profile traverses considerable deployments and participation in several Counter Terrorism and Counter Insurgency Operations as well as Internal Security Operations across the country. Indeed, his military exploits began as a young platoon commander in 65 Mechanised Battalion, from where he moved with the unit to participate in the historic Economic Community of West African States Monitoring Group (ECOMOG). During the ECOMOG operations, he was reported to be full of initiatives, dedicated, loyal and performed his assigned tasks without supervision. It was, therefore, no surprise that despite his young experience, he was entrusted with the onerous assignment of providing security for the Presidential Lodge, a task he discharged admirably. Overall, he was assessed to be an officer who accepted instructions with matured calmness and implemented them satisfactorily. He was also observed to be an articulate and honest officer who took keen interest in the welfare of his troops. As Officer Commanding in 2 Battalion, his conduct was reported to have been outstanding, especially during the initial militia crisis in Rivers State, where he exhibited courage as well as outstanding leadership qualities. He was noted to have successfully led his company to curb the nefarious activities of the Niger Delta Volunteer Peoples Force, a formidable militant group that threatened the peace and security of Niger Delta region. While serving in Sector 1 Joint Task Force, his bravery and response to the unforeseen was thoroughly put to test when a patrol team led by him was attacked along Chanomi Creek. Despite being overwhelmed, he was noted to have put up a spirited fight under heavy enemy fire that enabled him to safely extricate his men. He was also noted to have made valuable contributions to the overall planning of subsequent operations leading to the successful dislodgement of a notorious militant leader and his men from their well-fortified enclave, Camp 5.

5. Notably, the senior officer was renowned for leaving a trail of remarkable achievements wherever he served. He was also able to flexibly switch between staff and command roles, demonstrating his versatility and achieving commendable results. For instance, while the Deputy Chief of Staff in HQ 1 Div, he was seconded to 1 DISFORCE (an outfit coordinating 1 Division operations) and appointed the Operations Officer. In this role, he was noted to have coordinated several significant operations under the umbrella of Operation MESA and Operation SHARAN DAJI (a nickname for the operation against cattle rustling and armed banditry in 1 Division AOR). Indeed, several remarkable operational achievements were recorded by the Division during this period that led to a major degradation of armed banditry, cattle rustling, armed robbery and all other sundry crimes within Kaduna State and 1 Division Area of Operations.

6. As the Commandant Amphibious Training School (ATS), he was observed to have displayed exceptional and transformational leadership attributes that impacted positively in the rapid development of the School. He initiated the relocation of ATS students’ hostel with the approval of the Chief of Army Staff from the old site to a new one at no cost to the Nigerian Army. He equally initiated the construction of an integral swimming pool for the School after 34 years of its existence, also at no cost to the Nigerian Army. He established a SkillsAcquisition Centre where his soldiers’ wives and other women in Eburutu Barracks were trained in the art of sewing, soap making, hair dressing, among other skills. He renovated the Regimental Sergeant Major’s House, 2 Single Officers Quarters, 1 Married Officers Quarters and the Commandant’s house. Furthermore, he rehabilitated 4 x 30 family blocks (created additional facilities) for the ATS’ soldiers and their families. He also refurbished 3 hitherto condemned gunboats belonging to 81 Division, which were later deployed to Takwa Bay in Lagos. He refurbished 2 x K38 unserviceable boats backloaded from Operation DELTA SAFE, which were subsequently deployed to block Kula Estuary on River Bonny to boost the anti-illegal oil bunkering operations in the general area. In addition, he refurbished 2 Seamarks boats that were dry docked for years to support the 19 Brigade at Baga operating in Operation LAFIYA DOLE in the North East. Most telling was that all these notable achievements were made from the School’s meagre resources. It was therefore no surprise that the senior officer was among the recipients of the prestigious Chief of Army Staff Commendation Award in 2018.

7. Furthermore, the senior officer was noted to possess a mastery of a blend of operational art and administrative leadership as well as field command expertise. These attributes he aptly exhibited when he served as the Commander 27 Task Force Brigade and Commander Sector 2 Buni Yadi, Operation HADIN KAI. On assuming command, he quickly reorganised, restructured, and fortified the defences of his Brigades, making them less vulnerable to Boko Haram Terrorist attacks. These changes contributed immensely to the successful defeat of terrorists’ attacks in Buni Gari and Damaturu in 2019. Notably, he coordinated the operations which repelled and defeated BHTs attempted infiltration of Damaturu on 22 Dec 19, leading to the recovery of 1 x gun truck, 1 x anti-aircraft gun and a cache of 12.7mm rounds from the terrorists. Indeed, the operation was reported to have led to the death of 2 prominent terrorists’ commanders, including the notorious Abu Muktar and about 30 of their foot soldiers. As a commander who displayed keen interest in the welfare and well-being of his men, he spared no cost in ensuring that the feeding of the soldiers was improved. To improve his men’s living conditions, he also bought a 60 KVA generating set and overhauled the 150 KVA set, which was in a state of disrepair. These interventions had a tremendous impact on his men’s morale. Similarly, in an effort to bolster his combat efficiency, he refurbished 2 of the 3 Main Battle Tanks of the Brigade, a good number of soft skin vehicles and the water tanker. It is pertinent to state that all these were achieved with the modest resources available to the Brigade. These efforts remarkably boosted the operational capacity of the formation.

8. The remarkable achievements earned him a citation from his General Officer Commanding, where he was described to have exhibited all the leadership qualities expected of an officer. The citation further noted that the huge impact he made in accomplishing his operational objectives were hinged on his brilliant and sheer determination to succeed regardless of the enormity of challenges before him. He was always quick to assess the security situation within his AOR and developed mechanisms to harness available resources and apply them decisively in operations. In the same vein, it was reported that his resilience, doggedness and intuition aided his achievements in command. He is a good motivator and takes great care to address morale and administrative issues with his personnel. These qualities endeared him to his men, who were ever willing to follow his lead.

9. As GOC 6 Division, General Oluyede brought his wealth of experience to bear, which quickly led to stability in the Niger Delta. His leadership style and engagements created the enabling environment for operational efficiency, as witnessed in the increased daily oil production output during his reign as the GOC. He appreciated the peculiar situation obtainable in 6 Division AOR and developed mechanisms to harness available resources and apply them decisively. He displayed exemplary leadership, provided required administrative and operational directions, guidance and motivation to commanders, officers and men under him. This philosophy resonated across the Division AOR. He also championed and achieved several CIMIC projects and renovation/construction of facilities at the Division Headquarters and across the AOR. His achievements as GOC set the template that subsequent GOCs adopted, leading to operational success and stable oil and gas production in the Niger Delta.

10. On his appointment as Acting and later Substantive Chief of Army Staff, General Oluyede demonstrated the progressive continuity of successive commands. As the Chief of Army Staff, he leads through the lens of decades of invaluable experiences he has gained in his career. He immediately set out to put the soldiers’ interest first and indeed became the soldiers’ soldier. He also honoured the memories of past Chiefs of Army Staff who died on active service. His Command Philosophy of “Consolidating the Transformation of the Nigerian Army Towards Bequeathing a Well-Motivated and Combat-Ready Force that can Effectively Discharge its Constitutional Responsibilities within a Joint and Multi-Agency Environment” is matched with decisive actions. In achieving this, he has rekindled and awakened the fighting spirit of the troops. In the spirit of exemplary leadership, he commits to visiting the frontline troops regularly. He has made the welfare of troops a priority and has tremendously improved on it. Accordingly, he increased troops’ ration cash and operational allowances. His Soldiers’ First approach has also seen sweeping positive interventions in personnel administration including accommodation, emoluments, health care and other welfare needs of officers/soldiers and their families. He has left no stone unturned in ensuring that no Nigerian territory is lost to insurgents under his leadership of the Nigerian Army. Similarly, to add impetus to the operations, he approved the establishment of a second Depot for recruitment of soldiers in Osogbo. He also approved the commissioning exercises for Short Service Combatant Commission, Direct Short Service Commission and Executive Commission to improve the officers’ manpower.

11. The Nigerian Army across board has seen several weapons and equipment refurbished and procured for deployment in the various theatres. Some of the equipment procured include Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles, night visibilityequipment, troops lift vehicle and other Armoured Fighting Vehicles to enhance troops’ protection. General Oluyede always upholds the principle of humanitarian laws by ensuring that troops respect for human rights and rules of engagement is observed at all times. Given his wealth of experience in strategic thinking, Chief of Army Staff initiated the restructuring of Nigerian Army formations and units which is aimed at addressing contemporary realties and meeting future challenges.

12. In recognition of his meritorious service to the Nation, characterized by exemplary leadership, the Chief of Army Staff is honoured with several medals and awards. Some of which are; the Nigerian Army Medal (NAM), Forces Service Star (FSS), Meritorious Service Star (MSS), Distinguished Service Star (DSS) and Grand Service Star (GSS). Others include Passed Staff Course (psc), Member of the National Institute (mni), Field Command Medal(FCM), Field Command Medal of Honour (FCMH), Training Support Medal (TSM) and General Operations Medal (GOM). He is also a holder of the coveted Corps Medal of Honour (CMH) and prestigious Chief of Army Staff Commendation Award (CCA).

13. Lieutenant General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede is married and blessed with children. He enjoys travelling, playing basketball and volleyball.

14. He is the current Chief of Army Staff.

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Top Things About Nollywood Actor Uzor Arukwe

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Top Things About Nollywood Actor Uzor Arukwe

Uzor Arukwe is a highly regarded Nollywood actor celebrated for his exceptional versatility, seamlessly transitioning between intense dramatic roles, comedic timing, and romantic lead performances.

He officially began his career in 2014, but gained significant traction a few years later, establishing himself as a reliable and charismatic presence on screen.

1. The Viral Role of “Odogwu” in Love In Every World

  • The Character: Arukwe’s portrayal of Odogwu, a wealthy, caring, and supportive billionaire lover in the movie Love In Every World (2025) (and its sequel), became a massive talking point on social media. The character was widely praised as the “ideal man,” sparking online discussions.
  • His Message: Reacting to the viral success, Arukwe used the character’s popularity to send a message of self-development for women, noting that his character was attracted to his love interest, Chioma (played by Bambam), because she was an already valuable and industrious woman before his support.

2. Versatility Across Genres

Arukwe is one of Nollywood’s most versatile actors, refusing to be pigeonholed into a single type of role.

  • Comedic & Dramatic Range: He has received multiple award nominations, including two at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) in 2020 for Best Actor in a Comedy or Movie, showcasing his ability to excel in both genres.
  • Challenging Roles: He is known for taking on unique and demanding parts, such as his performance as “Chairman” in Funke Akindele’s blockbuster movie A Tribe Called Judah (2023), which he described as one of his most challenging due to the required speech and accent work.

3. Other Notable Film Roles

While “Odogwu” is recent, Arukwe has starred in several successful movies across various platforms, including Netflix and Prime Video:

  • A Tribe Called Judah (2023)
  • Momiwa (2024) – Playing the heartfelt role of Naeto, a single father.
  • Sergeant Tutu (2017) – His breakout role as Inspector Sam.
  • Sugar Rush (2019)
  • The Man for the Job (2022)

4. Background in Economics and Business

Arukwe has a strong academic background that he credits with enhancing his professional approach to acting.

  • Education: He holds a Bachelor of Science in Economics and a Master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Calabar.
  • Corporate Switch: He worked in the corporate sector for approximately ten years before transitioning to full-time acting, a shift he says was driven by his passion for the arts. He attributes his analytical skills from his degrees to helping him better dissect and understand his characters.

5. Philosophy on Career and Growth

Arukwe is known for his dedication to the craft and his humility, which has earned him the respect of his colleagues.

  • Love for the Craft: He constantly stresses his love for acting as the key to his success and versatility, aiming to deliver a convincing and fluid performance every time.
  • Open to Criticism: He views criticism and feedback as essential tools for growth, continually striving to improve and become a more organic actor.

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Build yourself first before expecting to marry rich – Actor Uzor Arukwe tells single ladies

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Build yourself first before expecting to marry rich – Actor Uzor Arukwe tells single ladies

Popular Nollywood actor, Uzor Arukwe, has advised single ladies to take self-development seriously and ensure that they are established in their own capacities before hoping to marry a rich and caring man.

He gave the advice while reacting to the praises the character of Odogwu, a caring billionaire lover which he played in the movie Love In Every World 2, is receiving on social media from people who declared the character as their ideal man.

He noted that the character of Chioma, the lover of the billionaire played by Bambam, was already a valuable woman before the billionaire began supporting her.

The actor explained that the billionaire didn’t need to ask his woman what her contributions to their marriage would be because it was clear she was an industrious woman.

Arukwe urged ladies to build value for themselves first, and valuable men would naturally locate them.

On his X handle, he wrote, “While we are basking in our delulu, it’s important to remember that Odogwu saw Chioma as a valuable woman before throwing his full weight to support her. He didn’t even need to ask what she brings to the table because it was clear she’s an industrious woman. So as a woman, build value for yourself first, and your Odogwu will locate you to become your helpmate that makes everything easier to handle.”

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Danny Murphy, has said that Declan Rice is the most important player in Arsenal’s title charge

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Danny Murphy, has said that Declan Rice is the most important player in Arsenal’s title charge

Former Liverpool star, Danny Murphy, has said that Declan Rice is the most important player in Arsenal’s title charge.

Arsenal is looking to win its first major trophy after 22 years and according to Murphy, the form of England midfielder Rice, will make this easier for Mikel Arteta’s side.

Rice has hardly missed a game for the Gunners since his £105m move from West Ham in 2023.

Despite the Gunners bringing in the likes of Viktor Gyokeres and Martin Zubimendi last summer former Premier League star, Murphy still views Rice as the ‘main man’ at the Emirates Stadium.

“They’re not reliant now on one or two players,” the former England international added.

“I still think Declan Rice is a massive player for them. I know they brought in Christian Norgaard from Brentford who is a good player actually, I like him a lot.

“But Rice has got that physical athleticism, he’s so good on the press. I’m not saying Arsenal wouldn’t win games without him but I think he’s the one, he’s become their main man.”

Arsenal are currently three points clear of second-placed Manchester City in the Premier League table going into this weekend’s fixture.

Rice helped Mikel Arteta’s side beat Atletico Madrid 4-0 in the Champions League on Tuesday. He provided the assist for Gabriel Magalhaes’ opener.

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Gombe State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Col Abdullahi Bello (retd), has died in a motor accident along the Malam Sidi–Gombe Road

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Gombe State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Col Abdullahi Bello (retd), has died in a motor accident along the Malam Sidi–Gombe Road

The Gombe State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Col Abdullahi Bello (retd), has died in a motor accident along the Malam Sidi–Gombe Road on Friday.

According to a statement by the Director-General (Press Affairs), Government House, Gombe, Ismaila Misilli, the late commissioner was returning from Maiduguri, Borno State, where he attended the North-East Regional Consultation on the Development of a National Disarmament, Demobilisation, and Reintegration framework.

The crash also claimed the life of his police orderly, Sgt Adamu Hussaini, while the commissioner’s driver sustained injuries and is currently receiving treatment.

Reacting to the tragedy, Governor Muhammadu Yahaya expressed deep sorrow, describing the late commissioner as “a disciplined officer and dedicated public servant who brought his wealth of military experience, leadership, and patriotism into the service of Gombe State.”

The governor said, “Col. Abdullahi Bello (retd) will be remembered as a pillar of discipline, courage, and selfless service. He carried out his duties with unmatched diligence and a deep sense of responsibility. His demise is a monumental loss, not only to his family and our government.

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About the new service chiefs, as Tinubu hires new Chief of Defence Staff after an alleged coup plot

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About the new service chiefs, as Tinubu hires new Chief of Defence Staff after an alleged coup plot

President Bola Tinubu has sacked Christopher Musa, an army general, as the Chief of Defence Staff and appointed Olufemi Oluyede, former army chief, as his replacement.

The president also appointed Waidi Shaibu, a general, as the new Chief of Army Staff while appointing new heads for the air force and the navy.

The changes were announced in a statement by presidential spokesperson Sunday Dare.

The changes come weeks after 16 senior soldiers were arrested for allegedly planning a coup to overthrow the federal government. However, the statement did not attribute the changes to the alleged coup plot.

The president retained E.A.P. Undiendeye, a major-general, as Chief of Defence Intelligence. He replaced Emmanuel Ogalla, the former Chief of Naval Staff, with Idi Abbas, a rear admiral. S.K. Aneke, an air vice marshal, was appointed to succeed Hassan Abubakar as Chief of Air Staff.

“The President appointed General Olufemi Oluyede to replace General Christopher Musa as the new Chief of Defence Staff,” the statement read. “The new Chief of Army Staff is Major-General W. Shaibu. Air Vice Marshall S. K. Aneke is Chief of Air Staff while Rear Admiral I. Abbas is the new Chief of Naval Staff.”

Mr Tinubu thanked the sacked service chiefs for “their patriotic service and dedicated leadership.”

“The President charges the newly appointed Service Chiefs to justify the confidence reposed in them to further enhancethe professionalism, vigilance and comradeship that define the Armed Forces of Nigeria,” the statement added, noting the new appointments take immediate effect.

About the new service chiefs

Major General Waidi Shaibu

The new Chief of Army Staff, Mr Shaibu, previously served as the Theatre Commander for Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), a joint task force, in the North-east. He also served as the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 7 Division.

Renowned for his leadership in the fight against insurgency, he oversaw major operational successes and community support initiatives in Borno State. During his tenure, he prioritised the refurbishment of military hardware, led deep clearance operations in insurgent strongholds such as the Sambisa Forest, and placed strong emphasis on training in areas like IED mitigation.

Mr Shaibu also worked closely with local communities and traditional leaders to foster cooperation in counter-insurgency efforts. Before his appointment, he served as Deputy Commandant at the National Defence College and later moved to the Defence Space Agency after handing over command in April 2025.

Rear Admiral Idi Abbas

Mr Abbas, now the Chief of Naval Staff, previously served as the Chief of Naval Safety and Standards, a role he assumed in June 2023 after serving as the Director of Operations at Naval Headquarters.

His extensive naval career includes service aboard NNS AMBE, NNS ARADU, and NNS EKUN and participation in ECOMOG operations in Liberia in 1996. As Base Operations Officer of NNS PATHFINDER, he coordinated anti-illegal bunkering operations that significantly reduced maritime crime.

A member of the 26th Regular Course of the Nigerian Defence Academy, he was commissioned as a sub-lieutenant in 1983. Mr Abbas trained at the Amphibious Warfare School, US Marine Corps University, and holds an MSc in Strategic Studies from the University of Ibadan, which he obtained during his National Defence College Course 22.

Air Vice Marshal S.K. Aneke

Mr Aneke, the new Chief of Air Staff, was previously the Air Officer Commanding (AOC) of the Nigerian Air Force’s Mobility Command.

Born on 20 February 1972, he also served as AOC Tactical Air Command, Makurdi.

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INTERPOL arrests 11 ‘high-level’ members of terrorist groups in Nigeria

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INTERPOL arrests 11 ‘high-level’ members of terrorist groups in Nigeria

At least 11 suspected “high-level members of several terrorist groups” have been arrested by the International Criminal Police Organisation, Interpol, in Nigeria.

They were among the 83 suspects apprehended across six African countries, in an operation code-named ‘Operation Catalyst’.

Countries where arrests were made include Nigeria, Angola, Cameroon, Kenya, Namibia and South Sudan.

In a statement, Interpol revealed that the operation lasted two months and targeted “terrorism financing and the illegal activity supporting it”.

It added that over 15,000 persons of interest and entities were looked into.

The operation discovered $260 million in both fiat and virtual currencies and seized over $600,000.

“Of the 83 arrests, 21 were for terrorism-related crimes, 28 were for financial fraud and money laundering, 16 were linked to cyber-enabled scams and a further 18 were related to the illicit use of virtual assets,” the statement read in part.

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In Nigeria, Catholic Priests are now soft targets for kidnappers, seminarians lament

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In Nigeria, Catholic Priests are now soft targets for kidnappers, seminarians lament

The Old Seminarians Association of Nigeria (OSAN) has expressed deep concern over the rising cases of abduction of Catholic priests across the country, describing the clergy as “soft targets” for kidnappers.

President of the Association and Chief of Staff to the Senate President, Chinedu Francis Akubueze raised the alarm at the opening of the 4th Annual Convention of OSAN, with the theme: “Insecurity: Navigating the complexities of nation building,” held in Abuja, Friday.

Akubueze lamented that many priests have fallen victim to kidnappers in recent times, with the Catholic Church often forced to pay huge ransom sums to secure their release.

According to him: “The clergy among us, who are also old seminarians, are increasingly becoming endangered species. Quite a number of them have been kidnapped, and the Church has paid heavy ransoms. They have become attractive targets for kidnappers who wrongly assume that the Church is wealthy.”

Akubueze, who was the immediate former Clerk of the Senate commended the Nigerian Army for its efforts in apprehending the killers of Rev. Fr. Sylvester Okechukwu and rescuing Rev. Fr. John Ubaechu, but stressed that “more needs to be done” to address the root causes of insecurity and prevent future tragedies.

The OSAN President called on the government to prioritise the safety and security of all citizens, regardless of faith or profession, and urged the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC) to take a stronger stand against attacks on clergy and worship centres.

“We gather today with heavy hearts to deliberate on the worsening insecurity in Nigeria, particularly the incessant kidnappings of Catholic priests,” Akubueze said. “The Church appears helpless in this excruciating situation, while government efforts have yet to yield the desired results.”

He noted that the convention would feature presentations by eminent scholars and security experts to brainstorm and propose proactive solutions to the crisis.

Akubueze reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to promoting unity, moral discipline, and social responsibility, values instilled during seminary training, and urged members to use their diverse platforms to advocate peace, security, and good governance.

“Let us join forces to build a society where everyone can live without fear,” he said. “We pray for the safety of all kidnapped priests and citizens, and we demand decisive action from our leaders.”

A member of the panel of discussion and Dean, Faculty of Management Sciences, Nile University of Nigeria, Prof. May Ifeoma Nwoye, said propaganda escalated insecurity in the country, nothing that there are people who use it as a political means to spread false information.

She said the situation in the country has gotten to the level where Nigerian youths are ridiculed in some African countries that were helped to achieve independence.

She said the leaders should look inward about the economic situation and that concessional loans should be targeted at elevating poverty.

“The hunger insecurity is very devastating and people have died for lack of economic means, ” she said.

On her part, Prof. Sandra Obioha proposed that a school of etiquette should be established for aspiring political office holders, where they will undergo six months training to be acquainted with the demands of the office.

She said insecurity is the biggest security facing the country and pleaded with the leaders to build a strong accountable institutions and judicious system.

“A true leader will plan for the next policy but a politician will think for the next election,” she said.

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Here’s Why FATF removed Nigeria from global financial watchlist

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Here’s Why FATF removed Nigeria from global financial watchlist

The Financial Action Task Force has officially removed Nigeria from its list of jurisdictions under increased monitoring, also known as the grey list.

The decision was taken at the FATF October 2025 Plenary in Paris, France, following the country’s successful implementation of a 19-point action plan aimed at strengthening its Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) framework.

Nigeria was placed on the grey list in February 2023 after the FATF identified strategic deficiencies in its AML/CFT systems.

Over the past two years, the Federal Government worked with the FATF and the Inter-Governmental Action Group Against Money Laundering in West Africa to address the identified gaps through legislative reforms, institutional strengthening, and enhanced inter-agency coordination.

Key reforms cited by the FATF include the enactment and enforcement of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, and the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022; the operationalisation of the Beneficial Ownership Register; and improved supervision of designated non-financial businesses and professions.

Announcing the country’s exit from the grey list in a statement released on Friday, the Director/CEO of the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit, Hafsat Bakari, said Nigeria had enhanced the capacity of its intelligence and law enforcement agencies to detect, investigate, and prosecute financial crimes, while deepening international cooperation and intelligence sharing.

She said, “The NFIU is pleased to announce that the FATF, at its October 2025 Plenary in Paris, France, has officially removed Nigeria from the list of jurisdictions under increased monitoring, commonly known as the grey list.

“This milestone marks a historic moment in Nigeria’s fight against serious financial crimes. The delisting of Nigeria underscores the country’s commitment to global standards in combating money laundering, terrorist financing, and proliferation financing.

“Nigeria has demonstrated sustained commitment to financial transparency and integrity. Key milestones include the enactment and enforcement of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, and the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022; the operationalisation of the Beneficial Ownership Register, improving corporate transparency and accountability; implementation of stronger supervisory and preventive measures by public and private sector authorities to prevent abuse of Nigeria’s financial system; increased international cooperation and cross-border intelligence exchange with regional and global partners; and improved supervision of Designated Non-Financial Businesses and Professions.”

She noted that a high-level Nigerian delegation — including the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, the Ministers of Finance and Interior, and the Director of the NFIU — represented the country at the plenary.

Bakari, who led the implementation of the reform plan, described the delisting as “a true test of Nigeria’s resilience, coordination, and unwavering commitment to reform.”

She commended President Bola Tinubu for his leadership and thanked key government institutions, the National Assembly, the judiciary, and the private sector for their roles in achieving the milestone.

Bakari urged all stakeholders to sustain the reform momentum to ensure Nigeria maintains compliance with global financial integrity standards.

According to her, Burkina Faso, Mozambique, and South Africa were also removed from the grey list at the same plenary.

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Galatasaray president Durzan Ozbek has confirmed that Victor Osimhen’s contract with the club does not include a release clause

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Galatasaray president Durzan Ozbek has confirmed that Victor Osimhen’s contract with the club does not include a release clause

Galatasaray president Durzan Ozbek has confirmed that Victor Osimhen’s contract with the club does not include a release clause.

The Turkish Super Lig champions secured the Nigeria international’s signature from Napoli this summer in a permanent deal, after activating the €75 million clause in his previous contract.

Osimhen previously spent the 2024/25 season on loan at RAMS Park, where he impressed with his performances.

Ozbek also defended the hefty transfer fee, emphasizing that the club’s investment in the powerful striker was fully justified given his quality and impact on the team

“Osimhen’s contract doesn’t include an exit clause,” Ozbek he said during a sponsorship press conference on Friday.

“He’s an extremely successful player who will serve Galatasaray for many years to come.

“Perhaps on the day of our transfer, there was talk that the amount was high, but today, the prevailing opinion in the football community is that the transfer fee was low and the player’s value is much higher.

“Transparency is crucial in transfers at Galatasaray. Every player contract is extremely transparent and compliant with the federation, UEFA, and FIFA.

“While Galatasaray is doing all of this, it also evaluates its own financial structure. We see the results of this both on the field and in Galatasaray’s financial structure. Our march to success will continue unchanged.”

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Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has revealed how he declined a proposal to endorse Nasir el-Rufai, ex-governor of Kaduna, as his successor in 2007

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Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has revealed how he declined a proposal to endorse Nasir el-Rufai, ex-governor of Kaduna, as his successor in 2007

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has revealed how he declined a proposal to endorse Nasir el-Rufai, ex-governor of Kaduna, as his successor in 2007.

El-Rufai served as the director-general (DG) of the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) and later as minister of the federal capital territory (FCT) between 2003 and 2007 when Obasanjo was the president of Nigeria.

However, while preparing to leave office at the end of his second term, Obasanjo supported the late Umaru Musa Yar’Adua as his successor.

Speaking on Friday during the second annual symposium of the Ajibosin Platform in Abeokuta, the Ogun state capital, themed “Importance of Leadership in Governance”, Obasanjo said Osita Chidoka, former minister of aviation, had recommended el-Rufai to succeed him.

According to the former president, he rejected Osita’s recommendation because el-Rufai needed more time to mature.

Chidoka was the keynote speaker at the event and had spoken about how the former FCT minister introduced him to Obasanjo at the age of 34, which later culminated in his appointment as the corps marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).

Obasanjo interjected Chidoka’s presentation and told the audience the part he had left out.

“Let him tell you. He didn’t mention that. He was pushing when I was leaving government that his friend, el-Rufai, should be brought in as my successor,” Obasanjo said, turning to Chidoka for confirmation, which the former minister acknowledged.

“I did not yield to the pressure. Later, he said, ‘I suggested this person; why didn’t you agree?’ I said el-Rufai needs to mature. You remember? When I left government and, many years later, he saw the performances of el-Rufai, he came back to me and said, ‘You’re absolutely correct. El-Rufai needed to mature.’”

Obasanjo praised Chidoka and el-Rufai for their “special attributes”, which he said were instrumental to his government’s achievements.

On leadership, the former president stressed the importance of character, exposure, experience, and training.

He lamented the absence of formal leadership training in politics, contrasting it with other fields where apprenticeship is common.

“It’s only in politics that I found out there is no training for leadership. Even among armed robbers, I was told there is apprenticeship. But it’s only in politics that there is no training in leadership. That’s not good enough,” Obasanjo said.

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40 passengers abducted along the Benue–Kogi corridor

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40 passengers abducted along the Benue–Kogi corridor

The day Salis Manaja, a multimedia journalist with Image Merchants Promotion Limited (IMPR), publishers of PRNigeria and Economic Confidential, regained his freedom from kidnappers, about 40 other persons were reportedly abducted along the Benue–Kogi corridor.
The journalist was released on Wednesday.

Manaja was among 25 passengers earlier kidnapped by gunmen while travelling from Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, to Ilorin, Kwara State, to attend IMPR’s annual Young Communication Fellowship.


All passengers in the vehicle he boarded were taken away, and his family later paid a ransom for his release.
A source close to the journalist said, “But basically, we paid N2.5 million as ransom. They took away all his belongings, including phones, a laptop, and work equipment. He is now home safely and undergoing medical attention.”
According to the source, all the passengers were kidnapped without any specific target.

“And he was not the only one kidnapped. All the passengers, about 25 of them in the vehicle he was travelling in, were abducted at random,” the source said.

The victims reportedly endured severe physical torture and endless movements on foot to avoid detection by security agencies.

“He and other victims were tortured and ransomed in varying sums demanded. They kept changing locations on foot to evade authorities. There was a day they trekked to a new location all through the night, covering many kilometres,” the source said.
“The day he was released, there were about 40 new abductions.”


According to the source, “the kidnappers reportedly made N67 million on the set of the abductees Salis was in”.
“They kept dilly-dallying before they finally collected it some kilometres away from a place called ‘Branch’ in Benue State,” the source said.


“We took the ransom to Lokoja, but the abductors refused to come forward. They now agreed to meet in Enugu. We went to Enugu, yet they refused to show up. Eventually, it was a place between Lokoja and Benue, I think.”
“He was severely subjected to physical assault, but thankfully, there were no visible external injuries on him after his release; however, he is undergoing medical attention to be sure there are no internal injuries either,” the source added.

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