Nigerian Army Clarifies Chief of Army Staff’s Leave Amid Health Speculations.
The Nigerian Army has confirmed that the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, is currently on leave, dismissing rumours that he is incapacitated due to ill health.
Army spokesman, Onyema Nwachukwu, made the announcement, stressing that there is no disruption in leadership within the Army. Nwachukwu further clarified that Major General Abdulsalami Ibrahim, Chief of Policy and Plans, is acting on behalf of the COAS during his absence, ensuring a smooth continuation of duties.
In a statement, Nwachukwu addressed the concerns about a potential leadership vacuum, stating, “There have even been insinuations that there is a leadership vacuum, with officers confused about what to do. Nothing could be further from the truth.”
He emphasised the structured nature of the Nigerian Army, which has well-established protocols to handle such situations. Before proceeding on leave, General Lagbaja ensured that all necessary measures were taken, including appointing Major General Abdulsalami Ibrahim to act in his stead.
Nwachukwu reiterated that the Nigerian Army’s operations remain on course, and the leave of the COAS would not disrupt any scheduled activities. He dismissed claims of uncertainty within the Army’s ranks as “mere speculation.”
The statement reassured Nigerians that the Army remains focused on its responsibilities, with its leadership functioning as expected.
