The Nigerian Army has appointed Brigadier General Olawale Matthew Oyekola as the Acting Military Secretary (Army), following a formal handover ceremony held at the Army Headquarters Department of Military Secretary, Mambilla Barracks, Abuja.
Brigadier General Oyekola officially assumed office from Major General Everest Okoro on Monday, July 13, 2026, marking a significant leadership transition within one of the Army’s key administrative departments.
Major General Okoro has been redeployed as the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 6 Division, Nigerian Army, and Land Component Commander, Joint Task Force South-South Operation DELTA SAFE. In his new role, he will oversee military operations aimed at protecting Nigeria’s critical oil and gas infrastructure and enhancing security across the Niger Delta region.
Before his appointment as Acting Military Secretary, Brigadier General Oyekola served as Chief of Staff to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu (Nigerian Army Medal). He had earlier commanded the 9 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Ikeja, Lagos, where he earned commendation for his exemplary leadership, operational effectiveness, and commitment to professionalism.
His appointment is expected to strengthen personnel administration and strategic human resource management within the Nigerian Army, as the Department of Military Secretary plays a central role in postings, appointments, promotions, career management, and other personnel matters.
The handover ceremony underscored the Nigerian Army’s commitment to ensuring continuity in leadership and enhancing institutional effectiveness through seamless transitions in key command and staff appointments.
