By Hamilton Nwosa (Head, The New Diplomat’s Polling, Research & Data desk)
After several months of intense pressure, President Muhammadu Buhari has announced a replacement for the nation’s Service Chiefs.
The appointment of fresh hands followed the immediate resignation of the out-going Service Chiefs, and their immediate disengagement from the Service after several professional years in the military.
A statement issued by Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to President Buhari, Mr Femi Adesina which confirmed the retirement of the out-going service Chiefs and the appointment of fresh replacements, said the President congratulated the retired Service Chiefs “for the overwhelming achievements and wish them well in their future endeavours”.
The statement reads: “President Muhammadu Buhari has accepted the immediate resignation of the Service Chiefs, and their retirement from service.
“Those involved are the Chief of Defence Staff, General Abayomi Olonisakin; Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen. Tukur Buratai; Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok Ekwe Ibas; and Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sadique Abubakar.
”President Buhari thanks the outgoing Service Chiefs for what he calls their “overwhelming achievements in our efforts at bringing enduring peace to our dear country,” wishing them well in their future endeavours.
”The new Service Chiefs are: Major-General Leo Irabor, Chief of Defence Staff; Major-General I. Attahiru, Chief of Army Staff; Rear Admiral A.Z Gambo, Chief of Naval Staff; and Air-Vice Marshal I.O Alao, Chief of Air Staff.
”The President congratulates the new Service Chiefs, and urges them to be loyal and dedicated in the discharge of their responsibilities.”
