Nigerian Army announces major shake-up, names new GOCs and commanders

The Nigerian Army has initiated a major shake-up of its senior officers, implementing changes across critical operational, command, training, and staff positions. This strategic redeployment, approved by the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, is designed to bolster national security and elevate operational effectiveness throughout the country.

The reshuffling impacts field commanders, school commandants, and principal staff officers at the Army Headquarters. According to a statement by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the move is intended to enhance the Army's readiness to confront evolving security threats.

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The reshuffle is part of efforts to strengthen national security and improve operational effectiveness across the country.

Among the key appointments, Major General WM Dangana now leads the 3 Division Nigerian Army as its General Officer Commanding (GOC) and also commands the Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE. He succeeds Major General EF Oyinlola. Similarly, Major General EI Okoro has been appointed GOC 6 Division Nigerian Army and Land Component Commander of Joint Task Force South-South Operation DELTA SAFE, taking over from Major General EE Emeka.

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The strategic redeployment of senior officers was approved by the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, saying the move was aimed at enhancing the Army’s capacity to address emerging security challenges.

Further appointments include Major General JR Lar as Commander of the Army Headquarters Garrison and Brigadier General OM Oyekola as Acting Military Secretary (Army). Brigadier General I Waziri will continue in his role as Chief of Staff in the Office of the Chief of Army Staff. In a move underscoring the Army's increasing focus on technology and modern warfare, Major General SA Emmanuel has been appointed Commander of the Nigerian Army Space Command. This appointment signifies the Army's growing emphasis on "emerging domains of warfare and technology-driven security operations."

Other significant appointments include Major General O Adegbe as Director of Intelligence and Security at Defence Headquarters. In the realm of military education, Major General KE Chigbu is the new Deputy Commandant of the National Defence College, and Major General SD Makolo is the Commandant of the Nigerian Army Armour School. Major General SO Adejimi will serve as Commandant of the Nigerian Army School of Supply and Transport, and Major General FS Etim as Chief of Training at the Headquarters Training and Doctrine Command. Brigadier General U Ahmad has been appointed Commandant of Depot Nigerian Army, Zaria.

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The statement noted that the appointment “reinforces the Army’s growing focus on emerging domains of warfare and technology-driven security operations.”