Major General Ilodibia Takes Command as 8th Chief of Defence Space Administration
The Defence Space Administration (DSA) witnessed a formal change of guard today as Major General Patrick Ilodibia officially assumed command as the 8th Chief of Defence Space Administration (CDSA).
Major General Ilodibia takes over from Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Lanre Ibrahim Oluwatoyin following a smooth transition ceremony held at the DSA headquarters in Abuja on Thursday. The appointment was made by the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu. The news was confirmed in a statement released to journalists by the DSA Public Relations Officer, Major Funmilayo Bukola Bamisaye.
New CDSA Outlines Vision for ‘Ultimate High Ground’
In his inaugural address, Major General Ilodibia expressed gratitude to the Chief of Defence Staff and the Service Chiefs for the confidence placed in him, pledging to uphold their trust. He also offered commendation to his predecessor, AVM Oluwatoyin, for his “exemplary leadership.”
Major General Ilodibia promptly outlined his strategic vision, emphasizing a push to reinforce the DSA’s crucial role in national defence.
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“My vision is to reinforce the DSA’s position as the ultimate high ground in defence and security,” Major General Ilodibia stated. He identified operational efficiency, research, innovation, and technological excellence as the key drivers of his administration.
The new CDSA, noted for his strong track record of excellence, is expected to continue the Administration’s core mission of integrating space technology into national defence operations and promoting innovation across Nigeria’s security sector.
In his valedictory remarks, the outgoing CDSA, AVM Oluwatoyin, described his tenure as “both fulfilling and humbling.”
He expressed deep gratitude to the Defence leadership and DSA personnel for their unwavering support.
“We have made remarkable progress in advancing space science and technology while deepening partnerships that strengthen our national security architecture,” AVM Oluwatoyin said.
He urged the DSA staff to extend the same cooperation and loyalty they showed him to his successor, Major General Ilodibia.
Earlier, Brigadier General OSA Fashina, the Director of Administration, praised AVM Oluwatoyin’s “visionary and result-driven leadership,” which he said strengthened innovation and capacity development within the organization. He expressed confidence that Major General Ilodibia would build on the existing momentum and drive the DSA to even greater heights.
The handover ceremony was attended by senior military officers, representatives from the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), and delegates from various partner organizations.
By PRNigeria
