By ABDULKABIR MUHAMMED

The Alumni Association of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (AANI) has lauded the appointment of Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede as the new Chief of Defence Staff, describing it as "a resounding recognition" of his service and leadership qualities. General Oluyede, an alumna of the AANI, was appointed on Friday 24 October 2025, by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to replace the sacked defence chief, General Christopher Musa.

In a congratulatory message signed by AANI president, Ambassador Emmanuel Obi Okafor, and dated 27 October 2025, the group noted that the appointment was a testament to Oluyede's sagacity to lead the country to greater heights.

"It is with great joy and pride that on behalf of the National Executive Committee and entire membership of the Alumni Association of the National Institute (AANI), an association of eminent Nigerians who have passed through the Senior Executive Course of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, I convey our most profound and heartfelt congratulations to one of our outstanding members, Lieutenant General Olufemi Olusola Oluyede mni NAM, on his well-deserved appointment as the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) by His Excellency Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Federal Republic of Nigeria.

"This appointment is a resounding recognition of Lieutenant General Oluyede’s distinguished service, professional accomplishments and sterling leadership qualities, which have consistently set him out as a visionary and distinguished senior military officer of integrity, intellect and uncommon courage. It also bears eloquent testimony to the confidence reposed in him to lead the Armed Forces of Nigeria to greater heights in addressing the security challenges confronting our dear nation."

They have also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the "merit-based" appointment, which, they argued, demonstrates the National Institute's commitment to producing strategic leaders.

"AANI commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, for this inspired and merit-based decision, especially as the appointee is a proud member of the AANI family. His elevation further clearly shows that the National Institute’s continuing contribution to producing strategic leaders who combine sound policy understanding with tested operational competence in the service of our country."

AANI have also commended the outgoing chiefs for their "remarkable contributions to national security."

Meanwhile, they have wished Lt. Gen. Oluyede and his teams "renewed strength, divine wisdom, and unity of purpose required to sustain and advance the gains of ongoing operations against terrorism, insurgency, banditry, and other threats to national peace and cohesion."

They have also declared support for the entire Nigerian Armed Forces, reiterating their commitment to national stability, security, and development.

"The Alumni Association of the National Institute stands firmly behind him and the entire Nigerian Armed Forces. We assure him of our continued partnership and support in the pursuit of national stability, security and development in line with the vision of the National Institute and our motto, “Towards a better society”.