Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has lauded President Bola Tinubu for the appointment of General Olufemi Oluyede as the new Chief of Defence Staff.
He described the gesture as a profound recognition of excellence and a source of pride for the people of Ekiti State.
PUNCH Online had earlier reported that Tinubu made changes in the hierarchy of the Service Chiefs on Friday.
Oluyede, a native of Ikere-Ekiti, was until his new appointment the Chief of Army Staff.
His elevation to the apex of Nigeria’s military hierarchy, Oyebanji said, is both a testament to his dedication and a reflection of Tinubu’s commitment to merit and national service.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Yinka Oyebode, from Ado-Ekiti and put on the state website on Saturday, the governor thanked the President, saying the appointment recognises “the exemplary qualities of the Ikere-Ekiti-born General.”
“The Government and the people of Ekiti State are grateful to the 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 statement read.
Oyebanji praised the new Defence Chief as a shining example of the Ekiti spirit of service, honour, and excellence.
“General Oluyede epitomises the core values of courage, integrity and loyalty for which Ekitis are known.
“He possesses a high level of integrity and professionalism required to make a success of the new assignment being given to him by the President,” Oyebanji said.
Expressing confidence in the General’s leadership, Oyebanji said he has no doubt Oluyede will bring his vast military experience to bear on the job.
“He is a gallant officer with a proven track record of accomplishments in his illustrious military career.
“We are confident he will leverage his extensive experience and expertise in charting a new direction for the military, particularly during this critical period,” the governor noted.
Oyebanji’s message struck both a note of pride and gratitude — pride in the elevation of an illustrious Ekiti son, and gratitude to Tinubu for what he called “a deserved appointment that reaffirms the values of competence and patriotism.”
With this appointment, Ekiti joins the nation in celebrating one of its own at the helm of Nigeria’s defence establishment — a moment Governor Oyebanji said “reflects honour not only for General Oluyede, but for the entire state.”
