Updated: Abdulsalami Bagudu Provides "Routine Briefs" as COAS Lagbaja Embarks on Leave

• The Defence Headquarters has clarified that Maj.-Gen. Abdulsalami Bagudu Ibrahim, the Chief of Policy and Plans, is providing routine briefs to COAS Taoreed Lagbaja, who is on leave
• DHQ provided the clarification following the reports that Bagudu will serve in an acting capacity during Lagbaja's absence
• However, the acting director of Defence Information, Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau, said no appointment such as an acting Chief of Army staff exists within the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN)

Abuja, FCT— The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has clarifed that no appointment as the acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS) exists within the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN).

This is contained in a statement by the Acting Director of Defence Information, Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau, on Monday in Abuja.

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Gusau was reacting to reports that the Army named Major General Abdulsalami Bagudu Ibrahim as the acting Chief of Army Staff because Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja was on leave.

The director of Army public relations, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, had said in a statement released on Sunday, October 20, that Bagudu will act on the COAS's behalf while he is away.

"Before proceeding on leave, necessary protocols were put in place for the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Major General Abdulsalami Bagudu Ibrahim, to act on behalf of the COAS while he is away," he said.

Legit.ng notes that Nwachukwu disclosed this as he dismissed fake reports claiming the chief of army staff, Lagbaja, is dead.

Major General Ibrahim is the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army).

Bagudu providing routine briefs to COAS Lagbaja - DHQ

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Clarifying that there is no acting chief of Army staff in the Nigerian Army, Gusau said Maj.-Gen Ibrahim is providing routine briefs to the COAS.

He said this is in accordance with standard military procedures.

Editorial Note: This report has been updated to reflect the reaction and clarifications provided by the Defence Headquarters.

Nigerian Army pulls 15 generals from service

In another report, the Nigerian Army ceremoniously pulled 15 retired generals from the Artillery Corps in a grand event at the Nigerian Army School of Artillery (NASA) in Kachia, Kaduna state.

Eleven Major Generals and four Brigadier Generals were among the retirees, marking the end of their distinguished military careers. At the pulling-out parade on Saturday, October 19, Major General James Myam (rtd) delivered a heartfelt speech on behalf of the retired officers, expressing deep gratitude and fulfilment.

He attributed their successful careers to divine grace, thanking God for protection throughout their years of service. Maj Gen Myam also extended his appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the opportunity to serve the nation.

Source: Legit.ng