Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State has commended President Bola Tinubu for appointing General Olufemi Oluyede as the new Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), describing the decision as “a profound recognition of excellence and merit.”
In a statement issued from Ado Ekiti on Saturday by his Chief Press Secretary, Yinka Oyebode, the governor said the appointment of Oluyede — a native of Ikere-Ekiti and former Chief of Army Staff – represents both an honour to Ekiti people and a testament to the president’s commitment to rewarding competence and patriotism.
“The Government and people of Ekiti State are grateful to President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu for General Oluyede’s appointment. We wish him success in this new assignment and pledge our unalloyed support for him,” the governor stated.
President Tinubu had on Friday announced a shake-up in the hierarchy of the Armed Forces, appointing new Service Chiefs to strengthen Nigeria’s defence leadership.
Governor Oyebanji described General Oluyede as “a shining example of the Ekiti spirit of service, honour, and excellence,” adding that his elevation to the top of the military structure is well-deserved.
“General Oluyede epitomises the core values of courage, integrity, and loyalty for which Ekitis are known. He possesses the professionalism and discipline required to excel in this national assignment,” he said.
Expressing full confidence in the new Defence Chief’s leadership, Oyebanji said Oluyede’s vast military experience and track record would bring renewed direction and vigour to Nigeria’s defence operations.
“He is a gallant officer with a proven record of accomplishment in his illustrious career. We are confident he will leverage his experience and expertise to chart a new course for the military, especially at this crucial time,” the governor added.
Oyebanji’s message carried both pride and gratitude – pride in the elevation of an accomplished son of Ekiti, and gratitude to President Tinubu for what he called “a deserved appointment that reaffirms the values of competence, merit, and national service.”
He said the appointment was not only an honour to General Oluyede but also a moment of pride for the entire Ekiti State.
“With this appointment, Ekiti joins the nation in celebrating one of its own at the helm of Nigeria’s defence establishment,” Oyebanji said.
