The Nigerian Army has dismissed concerns about a leadership vacuum during the absence of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, assuring the public that operations remain unaffected. In an official statement released on Saturday, the Army clarified that Lagbaja is currently on official leave, and all necessary protocols have been implemented to ensure continuity in leadership.
Major General Abdulsalami Ibrahim, the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), has been designated to act on behalf of the COAS during his absence, ensuring that the Nigerian Army’s routine and operational activities continue seamlessly. The statement, issued by the Director of Army Public Relations, Maj. Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, emphasized that there is no confusion or disruption in the chain of command, contrary to speculations.
“There have even been insinuations that there is a leadership vacuum, with officers confused about what to do. Nothing could be further from the truth,” Nwachukwu said, adding that the Army’s structured hierarchy and established procedures are designed to handle such situations. He noted that there have been past instances where service chiefs were absent for extended periods, yet their duties were efficiently carried out by designated officers.
In response to rumors of stalled promotions due to the COAS’s leave, Nwachukwu further clarified that the Nigerian Army’s promotion and posting processes have continued without delay. He pointed out that the results of the Captain-to-Major Practical Promotion Examination were recently released after due authorization by the acting Chief of Policy and Plans, Major General Abdulsalami Ibrahim.
“Indeed, in line with its Forecast of Events for 2024, the Nigerian Army recently conducted the Captain-to-Major Practical Promotion Examination in Akure. The results were subsequently announced by the Commander of Training and Doctrine Command, Major General Kevin Aligbe, following approval by the acting Chief of Policy and Plans,” Nwachukwu explained.
The promotion exercises for higher ranks are also progressing as planned, with the Master Warrant Officer (MWO) to Army Warrant Officer (AWO) Promotion Exercise currently ongoing in Jos. A similar exercise for Warrant Officers (WO) to MWOs was held in Kaduna, and results are expected to be released soon, pending final reconciliation between the respective Corps and the Army Headquarters Department of Personnel Management.
Nwachukwu also addressed claims that the absence of the COAS has caused delays in the release of promotion results, making it clear that the COAS does not personally sign off on postings or promotions. These tasks are routinely managed by the appropriate departmental chiefs, who continue to uphold their duties in line with the COAS’s Command Philosophy.
“The Army Headquarters enjoins the general public to remain confident in the Nigerian Army and be assured that the service remains on top of the security situation in the country. We are ever ready to defend Nigeria against any aggression on its land territory,” Nwachukwu added.
