BREAKING: Army Redeploys Senior Officers in Major Shake-Up, Appoints New GOCs

The Nigerian Army has carried out a sweeping redeployment of senior officers, introducing new commanders and principal staff officers in what military authorities described as a strategic move to strengthen security operations and enhance combat effectiveness nationwide.

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The changes, approved by the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, affect several operational commands, military institutions and key departments within the Army hierarchy. 

The development was disclosed on Saturday in a statement issued by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele.

Among the most significant appointments, Major General WM Dangana has been assigned as the General Officer Commanding 3 Division and Commander of Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE. 

He takes over from Major General EF Oyinlola. Likewise, Major General EI Okoro has assumed leadership of 6 Division and the land component of Joint Task Force South-South Operation DELTA SAFE, replacing Major General EE Emeka.

Further changes saw Major General JR Lar appointed Commander of Army Headquarters Garrison, while Brigadier General OM Oyekola was named Acting Military Secretary. Brigadier General I Waziri retained his role as Chief of Staff in the Office of the Chief of Army Staff.

The Army also made adjustments aimed at strengthening frontline leadership. Brigadier General IB Buhari was posted to Headquarters 63 Brigade as Commander, while Brigadier General K Rabiu was assigned to lead Headquarters 31 Artillery Brigade.

In a notable move reflecting the military’s growing interest in technology-driven operations, Major General SA Emmanuel was appointed Commander of the Nigerian Army Space Command. 

Military authorities said the appointment aligns with ongoing efforts to expand capabilities in modern warfare and emerging security domains.

“Today's security environment demands innovation and adaptability. These appointments are designed to ensure the Army remains prepared for evolving threats while maintaining operational excellence,” a senior military source said.

The reshuffle also extended to strategic intelligence functions. 

Major General O Adegbe was appointed Director of Intelligence and Security at Defence Headquarters, a position considered critical to national security coordination and information gathering.

Several training and educational institutions were equally affected by the changes. Major General KE Chigbu was appointed Deputy Commandant of the National Defence College, while Major General SD Makolo became Commandant of the Nigerian Army Armour School.

Additionally, Major General SO Adejimi was named Commandant of the Nigerian Army School of Supply and Transport, and Major General FS Etim was appointed Chief of Training at the Headquarters Training and Doctrine Command.

Brigadier General U Ahmad was also selected to head the Depot Nigerian Army in Zaria, a key institution responsible for the training and development of new personnel.

Beyond operational and training appointments, the Army approved leadership changes in its business and property management subsidiaries. 

Major General KO Ukandu was named Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Post Housing Development Limited, while Major General AI Allison was appointed Managing Director of Defence Properties Limited.

Military authorities said the redeployments form part of a broader transformation agenda aimed at building a more professional, agile and combat-ready force capable of responding effectively to current and future security challenges.

The Chief of Army Staff urged the newly appointed officers to demonstrate strong leadership, professionalism and dedication in their new assignments.

“Our expectation is that every officer entrusted with these responsibilities will contribute meaningfully to national security through discipline, innovation and service excellence,” the statement said.

The Army reiterated its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty, protecting territorial integrity and supporting efforts to maintain peace  and stability across the country.