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The President of the Alumni Association of the National Institute (AANI), His Excellency Ambassador Emmanuel Obi Okafor, mni, has congratulated Lieutenant General Olufemi Olusola Oluyede, mni, NAM, on his appointment as the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) of the Federal Republic of Nigeria by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.
In a congratulatory message personally signed by Ambassador Okafor on Monday, October 27, 2025, in Abuja, he described the appointment as a “resounding recognition” of General Oluyede’s distinguished service, professional excellence, and exemplary leadership in the Nigerian Armed Forces.
According to the AANI President, “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.”
He added that the appointment reflected President Tinubu’s confidence in General Oluyede’s capacity to lead the Armed Forces of Nigeria to greater heights in tackling the nation’s evolving security challenges.
Ambassador Okafor commended President Tinubu for making a merit-based and inspiring choice, noting that the appointee’s elevation once again underscores the National Institute’s continuing contribution to producing strategic leaders equipped with sound policy understanding and operational competence.
He also extended appreciation to the outgoing Chief of Defence Staff and other Service Chiefs for their remarkable contributions to national security and prayed for God’s guidance as they transition into retirement after years of dedicated service.
“As Lieutenant General Oluyede assumes his new and onerous responsibilities, AANI wishes him renewed strength, divine wisdom and unity of purpose to consolidate the gains in the fight against terrorism, insurgency, banditry and other security threats,” the statement added.
Ambassador Okafor reaffirmed AANI’s unwavering support for the new Defence Chief, assuring him of the association’s readiness to collaborate in promoting national security, stability and development in line with the vision of the National Institute and its motto, “Towards a Better Society.”
He concluded by praying that General Oluyede’s tenure be marked by strategic innovations, strengthened civil-military cooperation and enduring peace across the nation.