New Defence Chief Vows to Strengthen Intelligence-Led Military Operations

By Zainab Bakare

The new Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, has pledged to enhance intelligence-driven military operations and foster stronger collaboration among the country’s security and defence agencies.

Speaking during the handover ceremony at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja on Thursday, Oluyede emphasized that Nigeria’s evolving security challenges including terrorism, banditry, cybercrime, and maritime threats demand an intelligence-based, united response.

“The nature of threats confronting our nation requires us to be ever vigilant, innovative, and united,” Oluyede said.

“We shall enhance intelligence-led operations and deepen collaboration with all security and law enforcement agencies to restore peace and stability across the country.”

The new CDS said his leadership would focus on intelligence gathering, information sharing, professionalism, and accountability as key pillars of national defence strategy.

He added that technology, research, and capacity-building will play a major role in improving situational awareness and early threat detection.

“We will prioritise capacity-building, research, and technological innovation to enhance operational efficiency and foresight,” he stated.

“The welfare of our officers and men will remain central to our mission including housing, medical support, and training opportunities for personnel and their families.”

Oluyede also reaffirmed his commitment to improving troop morale, saying, “We shall invest in the moral and psychological well-being of our troops, ensuring their sacrifices are recognised and rewarded.”

His predecessor, General Christopher Musa, called on officers and the intelligence community to give Oluyede their full support, describing him as a “distinguished officer with strategic insight and impeccable credentials.”

“The task ahead remains demanding, but with teamwork and leadership, the armed forces will achieve even greater success,” General Musa said.