The Nigerian Army has addressed recent reports on the absence of its Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, clarifying that he is currently on leave. This announcement follows rumors suggesting that the COAS has been incapacitated due to health issues.
Leadership Continuity and Structure
In a statement, Army spokesperson Onyema Nwachukwu reassured the public that the Army’s leadership remains fully functional and organized. He emphasized that the Nigerian Army has a robust structure in place to ensure seamless operations, even in the temporary absence of its leadership.
Nwachukwu further explained that Major General Abdulsalami Bagudu Ibrahim, the Army Chief of Policy and Plans, has been designated to act in the COAS’s stead during his leave. This ensures that all leadership responsibilities continue without interruption.
Addressing Speculation
Responding to concerns about a possible leadership vacuum, Nwachukwu dismissed such claims as unfounded. He stressed that the Nigerian Army is a highly structured institution, with protocols that are meticulously followed in such situations.
“There have been insinuations that there is a leadership vacuum, with officers confused about what to do. Nothing could be further from the truth,” Nwachukwu stated. He added that before the COAS went on leave, all necessary protocols were activated to maintain the smooth functioning of the Army.
Operational Readiness Unaffected
Nwachukwu also assured that the COAS’s absence would have no impact on the Army’s ongoing operations, noting that routine and scheduled activities remain on track. The Army continues to execute its duties and responsibilities without disruption, maintaining national security and operational readiness.
In conclusion, the Nigerian Army remains a well-structured force with processes in place to manage all situations, including the temporary absence of its Chief of Army Staff. All operations continue as planned, with no leadership vacuum in sight.
