News
Tinubu Appoints Major General Oluyede as Acting Army Chief
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Major General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede as the acting Chief of Army Staff, a role he will hold temporarily until the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, can resume his duties.
As Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Tinubu’s choice displays Oluyede’s extensive military background and trusted leadership.
Before stepping into this role, Oluyede served as the Commander of the Nigerian Army’s Infantry Corps, located in Jaji, Kaduna.
This post was pivotal in shaping Oluyede’s career, providing him with the opportunity to lead one of the Army’s elite units.
Known for his deep understanding of tactical and operational matters, he brought a strategic edge to the Infantry Corps, which has a central role in training, ground combat operations, and upholding security within the Nigerian military framework.
His journey in the military began over three decades ago, dating back to his commissioning as a second lieutenant in 1992, though his service was considered effective from 1987.
In September 2020, he was promoted to the rank of Major General, a testament to his commitment and achievements throughout his military career.
Oluyede’s background is marked by a rich mix of field and command roles across Nigeria and abroad.
He and Lagbaja, the substantive Chief of Army Staff, were coursemates, both part of the 39th Regular Course of the Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna, which has produced many of Nigeria’s prominent military figures.
Over the years, Oluyede has held several command and instructional posts, including as Platoon Commander and adjutant at the 65 Battalion, Company Commander at the 177 Guards Battalion, and Staff Officer at the Guards Brigade.
He also served as Commandant at the Amphibious Training School, where he played a role in preparing troops for operations in diverse and challenging terrains.
In addition to his home assignments, Major General Oluyede has been part of significant peacekeeping and security operations that extend beyond Nigeria’s borders.
During the Economic Community of West African States Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) Mission in Liberia, he contributed to a regional effort aimed at stabilizing a war-torn West African country.
He was also involved in Operation HARMONY IV in Bakassi, a sensitive operation tied to the territorial issues between Nigeria and Cameroon.
Back home, he commanded the 27 Task Force Brigade in the North East, where he played a vital role in Operation HADIN KAI, a mission focused on counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency.
Throughout his service, Oluyede has received multiple recognitions and medals, underscoring his dedication and significant contributions to Nigeria’s military efforts.
Among his honours are the Corps Medal of Honour, Grand Service Star, and Field Command Medal. His outstanding performance during training and operations earned him the prestigious Chief of Army Staff Commendation Award, reflecting his hard work and commitment to Nigeria’s security.
He has also completed the Staff Course and holds membership in the National Institute, one of the country’s highest institutions for policy and strategic studies.
Outside of his professional life, Oluyede is a family man, balancing his demanding career with family responsibilities.
He is married and has three children, a side of him that adds a layer of relatability to his otherwise intense career in the military.
News
Sylvester Stallone’s Painting Raises $410,000 for AIDS Research at amfAR Gala
Hollywood legend Sylvester Stallone displayed his artistic and philanthropic sides at the amfAR gala in Las Vegas, where his painting, Knocking Heads, sold for an impressive $410,000. The event, held at The Wynn Hotel, aimed to support AIDS research, and Stallone’s contribution made a significant impact.
The vibrant multicolored artwork, featuring thoughtful faces and a nod to his iconic character Rocky Balboa, sparked an intense bidding war, earning a standing ovation when the auction concluded. Stallone, visibly delighted, expressed pride in helping the cause.
The night was further memorable for Stallone, as he received a special award from Tommy Hilfiger and his wife, Dee. Additionally, Stallone auctioned a role in his series, Tulsa King, raising an extra $300,000 for the foundation.
The gala blended art, charity, and entertainment, with Stallone’s efforts showcasing a different side of the celebrated actor and solidifying his legacy beyond Hollywood.
News
Two Cows Worth ₦1.9 Million Stolen From Oyo Church Ahead of Thanksgiving
The Celestial Church of Christ (CCC) Testimony Parish in Egbeda, Oyo State, has reported the theft of two cows valued at ₦1.9 million.
The cows, intended for the church’s annual adult harvest thanksgiving on November 17, 2024, were stolen from the church premises on November 11 during preparations for the event.
Despite ongoing efforts, the stolen cows have not been found, prompting the church to seek financial assistance to replace them.
In a Facebook post, the church appealed for prayers and support from the public:
“These two huge cows were stolen from the church premises at CCC Testimony Parish, Elerumoke Area, Egbeda, Iyana Ajia. They were meant for the 9th adult harvest thanksgiving this Sunday.”
The church has called on anyone with helpful information to come forward and assist in recovering the cows or ensuring the success of the thanksgiving celebration.
News
Obasanjo Shares How He Almost Fell Into Drug Addiction
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo of Nigeria has opened up about how he came dangerously close to becoming addicted to drugs in his youth.
He shared this personal revelation in Abeokuta while addressing attendees at the second edition of the ‘Fly Above The High’ anti-drug campaign conference.
The event was organized by the Recovery Advocacy Network, a group committed to combating the growing menace of drug abuse in the country.
Reflecting on his past, Obasanjo revealed that his youthful experimentation with smoking led to a troubling period of chronic coughing.
According to him, what seemed like a harmless act at first could have easily spiraled into a full-blown addiction had he not stopped.
Sharing this personal struggle, he warned young Nigerians about the dangers of drug abuse and emphasized its destructive nature.
He noted that while drug users might initially believe substances provide an escape or enhancement, they ultimately lead to ruin.
He further explained that addiction is not just difficult to escape but often comes with long-lasting consequences.
“If I had persisted, I could have become addicted,” he said, stressing that once a person falls into the trap of substance abuse, it becomes an uphill battle to break free.
Obasanjo expressed deep concern over the rising rates of drug abuse among Nigerians, particularly among students and young people.
He pointed out that drug abuse is not just a Nigerian problem but a growing crisis across West Africa.
He recalled that over a decade ago, West Africa was already becoming a hub for drug consumption, and the situation has since deteriorated.
“Whatever applies to West Africa applies to all other parts of Africa,” he added.
The former president also touched on the importance of addressing the stigma surrounding addiction.
He emphasized that those struggling with addiction need help and support rather than judgment.
Obasanjo urged families, communities, and governments to work together to create an environment where individuals battling addiction can seek help without fear of condemnation.
The anti-drug campaign in Abeokuta was part of a larger effort by the Recovery Advocacy Network to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and provide resources for those affected.
The initiative also aims to educate young people on the importance of making informed decisions and staying away from substances that could jeopardize their future.
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