…By Dorcas Funmi for TDPel Media. Senior military officers have reportedly commenced a lobbying process within the Bola Tinubu-led administration for the appointments of new Chief of Defence Staff, Chief of Army Staff, Chief of Naval Staff, and Chief of Air Staff positions.
Currently, the Service Chiefs in Nigeria consist of General Lucky Irabor as Chief of Defence Staff, Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya as Chief of Army Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo as Chief of Naval Staff, and Air Marshal Oladayo Amao as Chief of Air Staff.
Potential Retirements and Residence Changes
According to reports, over 300 officers from the Army, Navy, and Airforce may face compulsory retirement depending on the decisions made by the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), where President Tinubu intends to select candidates from.
The current service chiefs have reportedly prepared their handing over notes, with some already vacating their official residences at Niger Barracks to make way for their successors.
Consultations and Lobbying
Sources indicate that prospective officers deemed suitable for these positions are actively consulting and lobbying various influential figures such as traditional rulers, spiritual leaders, politicians, contractors, as well as the president’s family members and close associates.
These officers are striving to gain support and secure their ambitions for the coveted roles.
Regional Considerations
According to insider information, it is expected that the new Chief of Army Staff will emerge from the South-West region, as no officer from that area has held the position for over 40 years.
While the South-West previously had the Chief of Defence Staff position, held by the immediate past CDS, General Gabriel Olonisakin, the appointment of a Chief of Army Staff from this region has been long-awaited.
Several Major Generals from the South-West, including a General Officer Commanding, are being considered for the role.
Speculations on Naval and Air Staff Chiefs
Reports suggest that the new Chief of Naval Staff may likely come from the South-South region, as President Tinubu is committed to combating oil theft, ending illegal bunkering, and addressing other illicit activities in the maritime domain.
Names of Rear Admirals from the North West are also circulating in connection with the position.
Similarly, the Chief of Air Staff position is anticipated to be filled by a qualified officer from the South East, as the sole pilot in that category hails from that region.
Potential Chief of Defence Staff from the South West
Amidst lobbying efforts, it is speculated that the position of Chief of Defence Staff might be assigned to an officer from the South West region, based on the influence of certain officers from that area.
These officers have reportedly extended their lobbying to royal leaders in their respective states and other prominent individuals.
Retirement Possibilities
Daily Sun’s investigation reveals that over 400 officers could potentially face premature retirement from service, contingent upon the president’s decision regarding the course from which the service chiefs will be chosen.
The outcome of this selection process will determine the fate of these officers and their future in the military.
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