Third-Estate Celebrates AVM Oluwatoyin’s Illustrious Military Career
The Third-Estate of Ilorin Emirate, a prominent socio-cultural and professional association, has extended congratulations to Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Lanre Ibrahim Oluwatoyin following his retirement from active service after a distinguished career spanning over three decades.
The group, composed of Ilorin indigenes who are intellectuals, public officials, and business leaders, hailed the immediate past Chief of Defence Space Administration (CDSA) for bowing out with honour and distinction, leaving behind a “lasting space-defence legacy.”
In a statement signed by the President, Mallam Ahmed Ladan Gobir, and Spokesperson, Mallam Nasir Abdulquadri, the Third Estate praised AVM Oluwatoyin, describing him as a “proud son of Ile Akanni Compound in Ilorin South,” who represents “the best of Ilorin’s intellectual and moral heritage.”
“His retirement as the Chief of Defence Space Administration (CDSA) marks the end of an era and the continuation of a legacy defined by brilliance, discipline, and unwavering commitment to national service,” the statement read.
AVM Oluwatoyin’s extensive career, which began with his admission into the 39th Regular Course of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), was characterized by an emphasis on expertise and continuous learning:
He obtained a B.Sc. (Hons) in Mathematics, a Master’s in Space Management from the International Space University, France, and an MPhil from the Bangladesh University of Professionals.
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His expertise in satellite technology, honed through certifications in China and elsewhere, led him through key intelligence agencies, including NASRDA, NigComSat, and the Defence Intelligence Agency.
As CDSA, his tenure was pivotal in reshaping Nigeria’s space-defence collaboration and strengthening global partnerships, notably with the U.S. Space Command.
Throughout his service, AVM Oluwatoyin was recognized for combining “brilliance with humility, intellect with service, and leadership with mentorship.”
He commanded major Nigerian Air Force formations in Makurdi and Yola, where he implemented key reforms in welfare and operations, and led digital transformation efforts at the Air Force Headquarters.
As the CDSA, he championed a vision of intelligence-led warfare, driven by satellite technology, captured by his doctrine: “no soldier should fight blind.”
He also championed data-driven defence strategies and prioritized human capital development through training and scholarships for young officers.
The Third Estate affirmed that under his stewardship, the Defence Space Administration became a “cornerstone of Nigeria’s national security architecture” and a crucial bridge between science, technology, and military innovation.
The association concluded by celebrating AVM Oluwatoyin as “a symbol of Ilorin excellence, and a beacon of professional integrity,” assuring that his contributions will remain “etched in the annals of Nigeria’s defence history” and serve as a guidepost for emerging leaders.
By PRNigeria
