Nigeria's new Chief of Defense Staff, Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede, steps into her role with a reputation built on patience, intelligence and steady command. His appointment by President Bola Tinubu places him at the center of Nigeria's national security strategy at a time when the country faces threats on multiple fronts.
Born on 21 June 1968 in Ikere Ekiti, Oluyede's journey into the upper ranks of the military began in 1987 at the Nigerian Defense Academy. He emerged as a Second Lieutenant in 1992, one of a young group of officers who would shoulder the burden of Nigeria's most demanding security challenges. His initial postings took him into the roles of platoon commander, company commander and staff positions within the Guards Brigade. Each move enhanced his knowledge of Nigeria's complex security landscape and the culture of the armed forces.
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He moved up the chain of command with a mix of front-line experience and academic discipline. Oluyede has a degree in Economics and completed advanced military leadership studies, including at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies in Kuru. His time as an instructor at the Nigerian Defense Academy is often cited as evidence of his belief in strategic thinking and professional development across all ranks.
Operationally, he has been in the most challenging environment for any Nigerian soldier. From the ECOMOG peacekeeping mission in Liberia to security enforcement in the Bakassi Peninsula and the fight against insurgency in the North East under Operation Hadeen Kai, he has commanded units where success often depended on adaptability and morale under pressure. His leadership of the infantry corps at Jaji marked a major point in his career, indicating his readiness for the highest offices.
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His recent rise has been rapid, reflecting years of consistent service. In October 2024, he became Acting Chief of the Army Staff, a role later confirmed by the House of Representatives. Now, as Chief of Defense Staff, he holds the most senior position in Nigeria's military hierarchy.
They are expected to strengthen cooperation between the Army, Navy and Air Force, improve intelligence coordination and support troops with better logistics and welfare. He sees these as essential to restoring confidence and effectiveness across the board.
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Decorated with honors such as the Grand Service Star and the Corps Medal of Honor. He is a family man at heart, married and with three children, and when off duty he enjoys traveling, basketball, and volleyball.
A soldier, a strategist and a teacher, Olufemi Oluyede arrives at the top job with a clear understanding of what is at stake.
