The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has forcefully denied reports suggesting the appointment of an acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS), affirming that Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja remains firmly in command while taking scheduled annual leave.
The statement, issued Monday in Abuja by Acting Director of Defence Information, Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau, comes amid swirling speculation about the military’s top leadership. The DHQ’s intervention seeks to maintain stability and public confidence in the armed forces’ command structure.
According to the Defence Headquarters, Lt.-Gen. Lagbaja is currently observing his 2024 annual leave, described as “well-deserved rest.” The statement emphasized that this temporary absence is part of standard military procedure and does not affect his position or authority as COAS.
In a significant detail revealing the normalcy of current operations, the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, reportedly held direct communication with Lt.-Gen. Lagbaja shortly before the statement’s release. This direct contact serves to underscore the continuity of command and regular functioning of military leadership.
The DHQ clarified the role of Maj.-Gen. Abdulsalam Ibrahim, the Chief of Policy and Plans, who is currently providing routine briefings to the COAS. This arrangement, the statement emphasized, follows standard military protocols and does not constitute an acting appointment.
The statement highlighted that all Service Chiefs continue to perform their duties within the constitutional framework of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. This reference to constitutional authority serves to reinforce the legitimacy and stability of the current military leadership structure.
In a strong message to media organizations, the DHQ emphasized the importance of fact-checking and verification before publishing potentially disruptive information. This guidance reflects growing concern about the spread of unverified information regarding military leadership.
The Defence Headquarters took the opportunity to stress the professional management of the armed forces, countering any suggestions of disorder or improper procedure in the temporary arrangements during the COAS’s leave period.
This situation emerges at a time when Nigeria’s armed forces continue to face significant operational challenges across multiple fronts. The clarity of command and control remains particularly crucial given the ongoing security operations nationwide.
The military’s swift and unequivocal response to these rumors demonstrates its commitment to transparency and accurate public information. Security experts have praised this proactive communication strategy as essential for maintaining public confidence in military institutions.
The DHQ’s statement indicates that Lt.-Gen. Lagbaja will resume his normal duties at the conclusion of his leave period. This planned transition back to regular duties suggests a well-organized temporary arrangement that maintains operational continuity.
The episode highlights the robustness of Nigeria’s military institutional frameworks, which allow for senior leadership to take necessary leave while maintaining operational effectiveness through established protocols and procedures.
This development serves as a reminder of the importance of accurate information in matters of national security and military leadership. As Nigeria’s armed forces continue their vital role in national security, the clear communication from the DHQ helps maintain public confidence and institutional stability.
The military’s response to these rumors demonstrates its commitment to professional standards and transparent communication, essential elements in maintaining public trust in national security institutions.
