Acting Chief of Army Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, was on Tuesday promoted to the rank of Lieutenant General, from his previous rank of Major General.

President Bola Tinubu decorated Oluyede with his new rank during a short ceremony at his office in the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

President Tinubu commended the military for its unwavering courage, dedication and patriotism in maintaining the nation’s security.

“It is both an honour and a privilege to decorate you today. This recognition reflects your commitment and service to the Nigerian military, which speaks volumes through your exemplary record,” the President said.

“We recognise all that you have been doing to ensure the country is safe and stable,” he said.

The President assured the military that the government would always listen to their advice and keep the country on the path of peace and prosperity.

Oluyede was appointed acting Chief of Army Staff by the President on October 30 following the absence of the substantive Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja, due to ill health.

Oluyede would act in the position pending the return of the Lagbaja, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, had said in a statement.

There had been speculations about Lagbaja’s state of health, including death rumours, but the military authorities said he was “hale and hearty”.

Responding after he was decorated, Oluyede expressed gratitude and acknowledged the solemnity of the occasion. He reiterated his commitment to upholding the vision of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, and to maintaining peace across the country.

Oluyede was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in 1992 and rose to the position of Major General in September 2020. He served as the 56th commander of the infantry corps of the Nigerian Army, Kaduna.