The Nigerian Army has clarified that the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, is currently on leave.

This follows reports speculating that the COAS is incapacitated due to health issues.

Disclosing this, the Army spokesperson, Onyema Nwachukwu, explained that established protocols ensure no leadership vacuum during such times.

Nwachukwu added that Major General Abdulsalami Ibrahim, the Army’s Chief of Policy and Plans, will act in place of the COAS during his absence.

In a statement, Nwachukwu emphasized that the leave will not disrupt the Army’s operations.

He noted: “There have been speculations of a leadership vacuum with officers reportedly confused. This is unfounded.

“The Nigerian Army is a well-structured institution with clear protocols for handling various circumstances.

“Before the COAS proceeded on leave, the necessary protocols were followed, assigning Major General Abdulsalami Ibrahim to act in his stead.

“Claims of a leadership vacuum within the Army are purely speculative, as all operations and scheduled activities are continuing as planned.”