Acting COAS Warns Criminals of Tougher Military Action
The Acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has issued a stern warning to terrorists and other criminal elements, declaring that the military is prepared to intensify operations against them.
Oluyede made this statement during the handing over ceremony at the Nigerian Army Infantry Corps in Jaji Military Cantonment, Kaduna State, on Wednesday.
The event marked Oluyede’s transition from his role as the 56th Commander of the Infantry Corps to Acting Chief of Army Staff, following his appointment by President Bola Tinubu. Maj.-Gen. Abdul-Khalifa Ibrahim was officially appointed as the 57th Commander of the Infantry Corps.
Addressing the gathering, Oluyede emphasized the critical role of the Infantry Corps, describing it as the backbone of the Nigerian Army. He urged his successor to prioritize training and operational excellence to enhance the effectiveness of soldiers in the field.
“Nobody has a monopoly of violence besides those of us in uniform,” Oluyede declared. “For the criminals out there, they should be ready for a good run from us because we are going all out against them. Under my watch, we will strive to make Nigeria more secure for its citizens.”
Maj.-Gen. Ibrahim, in his inaugural remarks, expressed gratitude for Oluyede’s leadership and pledged to uphold the high standards of the Infantry Corps.
“On my part, I pledge to lead the Infantry with integrity, courage, honour, and utmost dedication, embracing best practices in all I do,” Ibrahim said. He encouraged personnel to remain committed to the Army’s core values, including loyalty, discipline, and respect for others.
Ibrahim brings extensive experience to the role, having served as Acting Garrison Commander of 1 Division Kaduna, Commander of 14 Brigade, General Officer Commanding 7 Division Maiduguri, and Commander of the Multi-National Joint Task Force in N’djamena, Chad.
The ceremony underscored the Army’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its leadership and operational capabilities to address security challenges across the nation.
