The Nigerian Army (NA) has reiterated that its operational and administrative activities remain on course, dismissing recent rumors circulating in both traditional and social media regarding the state of affairs within the military. Recent speculations, especially regarding personnel postings, promotions, and training, have fueled concerns about a leadership vacuum due to the temporary absence of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. TA Lagbaja, who is currently on leave.
In a statement issued by Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, the Director of Army Public Relations, the NA clarified that these rumors are unfounded and misleading. The army has well-established procedures for managing periods when senior officers, including the COAS, are unavailable. Major General Abdulsalami Bagudu Ibrahim, Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), has been designated to act on behalf of the COAS during his leave, ensuring that all routine activities continue as scheduled.
Contrary to claims of confusion within the ranks, the Nigerian Army emphasized that there has been no disruption in its operations. “The Nigerian Army is a highly structured establishment with well-laid-out procedures and processes,” the statement read, assuring the public that all activities are proceeding smoothly.
The statement highlighted the recent Captain-Major Practical Promotion Examination conducted in Akure, overseen by Major General Kevin Aligbe, Commander of the Training and Doctrine Command. The results of this exercise were authorized by Major General Ibrahim in line with the army’s procedures. Additionally, the ongoing Warrant Officer promotion exercises in Jos and Kaduna are progressing as planned, with results expected to be released shortly.
Addressing concerns about delays in promotions, the Nigerian Army clarified that it has never been standard practice for the COAS to personally handle promotions or postings. Departmental chiefs are responsible for these tasks, and they continue to perform their duties in alignment with the COAS’s command philosophy.
The Army Headquarters urged the public to remain confident in the institution’s ability to maintain national security and assured that the Nigerian Army is fully prepared to respond to any threats. The NA also expressed gratitude to Nigerians who have expressed concern for Lt. Gen. Lagbaja’s well-being and affirmed that all land-related training, operations, and administrative functions are being managed effectively in his absence.
The statement concluded by emphasizing the Army’s readiness to continue safeguarding the nation, assuring that the transition of duties has been seamless and all activities are running efficiently.