Maj.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, the 23rd army chief, has taken over as the new Chief of Army Staff (COAS) and has vowed to carry out his duties in an upright way.
The 22nd Chief, Lt.-Gen. Faruk Yahaya, who had been in charge since May 2021, was replaced by Lagabaja.
The new army leader said that under his predecessor, Gen. Yahaya, the Nigerian army had undergone a significant transformation over the previous 25 months.
He claimed that Nigeria has already started to see the benefits of these, including the acquisition of equipment at unprecedented levels and careful management of its material and human resources.
Lagbaja expressed his gratitude to the former COAS for serving as a mentor and advancing his military career.
He claimed that thanks to Gen. Faruk Yahaya's management approach, terrorists have been turning themselves in in unprecedented numbers.
“Currently we are witnessing more than ever before massive surrender by repentant insurgents in the North East in a manner that beats the expectation of any observer locally and internationally.
“There is no doubt that the experience and exposure garnered under you will help in the discharge of my duties as the chief of army staff, as you transit into retirement on this glorious day.
“I wish to assure you that I shall do everything within my power to improve on your legacy of a proficient, effective and admirable Nigerian Army,” he said.
In addition, Lagbaja pledged to build on the proficient and professional Nigerian army left behind by his predecessors, stressing that under his leadership, effort will be recognized.
Earlier, Lt.-Gen. Yahaya, the former chief of army staff, declared that he was leaving the Nigerian army in a better state than when he arrived, noting that the force had achieved notable victories in the struggle against insecurity.
He reminded his officers and soldiers that the enemy is currently in disarray throughout all theaters of operations and gave them orders to keep up the pace.
“You must always conduct yourselves professionally in accordance with the ethics, customs and traditions,” he added.
