Extensive restructuring of the Nigerian army to strengthen security operations
Key leadership positions
Our correspondent from Nigeria, Boubacar Sani
The Nigerian army has carried out a wide-ranging reshuffle and appointment of its senior officers, including the appointment of new commanders for military regions, operations commanders, and officials in key leadership positions, as part of a strategic restructuring aimed at strengthening the country’s security system.
A broad movement that included specialized leaders
According to a statement issued on Saturday by the acting director of public relations for the Nigerian army, Colonel Apolonia Anele, this extensive movement, approved by the army chief of staff, General Wadie Shuaiba, included operational formations, military institutions, the army command, and a number of specialized commands.
Among the most notable appointments was the appointment of Major General WM Dangana as commander of the 3rd Division and commander of the Combined Task Force for Operation Enduring Peace, while Major General EI Okoro took command of the 6th Division and commander of the ground component of the Combined Task Force for Operation Delta Safe in the South-South region.
Major General JR Lar was appointed Commander of the Army Command Garrison, Brigadier General OM Oykola was appointed Acting Military Secretary, while Brigadier General I Waziri retained his position as Chief of Staff of the Army.
The changes also included strengthening field commanders, with Brigadier General IB Bukhari being appointed commander of the 63rd Brigade, while Brigadier General K Rabie took command of the 31st Artillery Brigade.
In a move reflecting the army’s growing interest in developing its capabilities in modern warfare and military technology, Major General SA Emmanuel was appointed commander of the Nigerian Army Space Command, while Major General O Adegbe took over as director of intelligence and security at the Defence Headquarters.
The appointments extended to military training and education institutions, with Major General KE Chigbo appointed as Deputy Commandant of the National Defence College, Major General SD Makolo as Commandant of the Armored School, Major General SO Adegimi as Commandant of the Supply and Transport School, Major General FS Itim as Chief of Training at the Military Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), and Brigadier General U Ahmed taking command of the Army Depot in Zaria.
The reshuffle also included military-affiliated institutions, with Major General KO Okandu being appointed General Manager and CEO of Post Housing Development Limited, while Major General AI Allison took over as General Manager of Defence Properties Limited.
The Chief of Army Staff, General Wadie Shuaib, called on the new officers to live up to the trust placed in them by demonstrating outstanding leadership, commitment to professionalism, and embracing innovation, stressing the Nigerian Army’s commitment to building a combat-ready and capable force to confront current and future security threats.
