SHAKE-UP in Nigerian Army: 37 Major Generals, over 2,000 other officers affected

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has shaken up the Nigerian Army, approving the posting and appointment of 2,313 officers across various formations and units.

This, according to a Nigerian Tribune exclusive report, was contained in a restricted signal signed by the Military Secretary (Army), Major General E. I. Okoro, dated 31 December 2025.

According to the Signal, the directive is with immediate effect and also reflected amendments or deletions affecting 98 officers of various ranks which made it 2,215.

As per the report, “The posting showed that 37 Major Generals were redeployed, including changes at the level of General Officers Commanding (GOCs) in key Divisions.

“According to it, Major General Farouk Mijinyawa, formerly the GOC of 81 Division, has been posted to the Army Headquarters, Department of Army Policy and Plans (DAPP), as the Deputy Chief of Policy and Plans (COPP).

“Similarly, the former GOC of 8 Division, Sokoto, Major General Ibikunle Ajose, was moved to the Army Headquarters and appointed Deputy Chief of Operations (Army).

“New GOCs have also been appointed for the affected Divisions. Major General B. P. Koughna has been appointed GOC, 8 Division, as well as Commander, Sector 2, Joint Task Force (JTF), North-West. Meanwhile, Major General A. A. Babalola has been redeployed from the Defence Headquarters, DAPP, to assume duty as GOC, 81 Division, Nigerian Army, Lagos.

“Additionally, the posting also affected 187 Brigadier Generals and 189 Colonels, whilst 235 Lieutenant Colonels, 856 Majors, 384 Captains, 318 Lieutenants, and three Second Lieutenants.

“According to the Signal all affected officers are to report to their new areas of posting or redeployment on the dates specified against their names, failure of which will attract appropriate sanctions.

“The Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele is yet to issue an official statement on the development but a Senior Officer at the Army Headquarters, confirmed the story, describing it as a normal routine exercise aimed at enhancing optimal operational performance in the Service.”