The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed reports suggesting the appointment of an acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS) within the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Director of Defence Information, Tukur Gusau, the DHQ clarified that Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja remains the Chief of Army Staff, currently on his annual leave, and no interim appointment has been made.
The press statement noted that contrary to recent media speculation, Major General Abdulsalam Bagudu Ibrahim, who serves as the Chief of Policy and Plans, continues in his role and is not the acting COAS. The statement emphasized that Ibrahim is merely carrying out routine briefings in line with standard operating procedures while Lagbaja is on leave.
“The Defence Headquarters wishes to clarify that it has not announced the appointment of any senior officer as the acting Chief of Army Staff (COAS), contrary to speculation by certain media outlets.
“For the record, no such appointment exists within the Armed Forces of Nigeria,” the statement read.
The DHQ reassured Nigerians that Lagbaja is in good health and will resume duties immediately after his leave. It also cautioned the public and media organizations against spreading unverified reports, urging them to verify information through proper channels.
