The Alumni Association of the National Institute (AANI) has expressed strong support for the appointment of Major General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede, mni, as the Acting Chief of Army Staff of the Nigerian Army.
In a statement released on Saturday, AANI President Ambassador Emmanuel Obi Okafor, mni, extended congratulations on behalf of the association, which includes the National Executive Council and all AANI members, noting that the appointment underscores Oluyede’s dedication, professionalism, and commitment to Nigeria.
“Major General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede’s appointment is well deserved,” Okafor stated, adding that it highlights Oluyede’s “great wealth of experience as a seasoned senior military officer” and his “deep understanding of the Nigerian Army.”
Okafor also described Oluyede’s career as marked by a series of high-profile roles, including his most recent position as Commander of the Infantry Corps of the Nigerian Army.
Highlighting the significance of the appointment, AANI’s statement noted that Oluyede’s leadership comes at a critical time for Nigeria’s security landscape. “His participation in critical military operations, both at home and abroad, has undoubtedly equipped him with a unique insight into addressing complex security challenges in this country,” Okafor explained. “We are therefore confident that he will bring this wealth of experience to bear in this new appointment.”
The appointment was also commended as a recognition of AANI members’ capabilities. “This appointment further demonstrates the President’s continued recognition of AANI members’ leadership and potential to excel in critical positions within our national security framework,” Okafor noted. He affirmed AANI’s commitment to supporting national stability, pledging that the association would “positively contribute to the progress and stability of Nigeria.”
Calling for unity within the ranks, AANI urged officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army to fully support Major General Oluyede in his new role. “With his knowledge, dedication, and the collective support of the officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army, sister services, the police, other security agencies, and well-meaning Nigerians, we are confident he will effectively confront the pressing security challenges in this country head-on,” Okafor stated.
The association also extended wishes to Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff, for a “swift and complete recovery,” underscoring AANI’s solidarity with the leadership of the Nigerian Army during this period.
AANI concluded its message by encouraging Major General Oluyede to “uphold the values of loyalty, dedication, and excellence,” while expressing confidence in his tenure. “The entire AANI family stands with you and wishes you a successful tenure filled with impactful achievements,” said Brigadier General S.K. Usman (rtd), AANI’s National Publicity Secretary.
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