AVM Alfred Olugbenga Shogbanmu Assumes Command As 28th Commandant Of AFCSC

AVM Alfred Olugbenga Shogbanmu Assumes Command As 28th Commandant Of AFCSC

Air Vice Marshal Alfred Olugbenga Shogbanmu has formally assumed command as the 28th Commandant of the prestigious Armed Forces Command and Staff College (AFCSC), Nigeria. Following an historic Handing and Taking Over Ceremony between himself and the outgone Commandant Air Vice Marshal Hassan Idris Alhaji on Wednesday, 7 January 2026 at the College headquarters.

Speaking after assuming command, Air Vice Marshal Shogbanmu expressed appreciation to the Chief of Defence Staff and Service Chiefs for the confidence reposed in him. He paid tribute to his predecessor for laying a solid foundation and assured Defence Headquarters, Services Headquarters, and all stakeholders of his commitment to sustain existing legacies while introducing innovation were required to meet evolving operational and training realities.

He identified staff and student welfare as a key pillar of his command philosophy, stressing that a motivated workforce and suitable learning environment for students are essential to achieving training excellence. He further pledged to foster mutual respect, mentorship, and professionalism between Directing Staff and students to enhance leadership development and institutional cohesion.

Prior to his appointment as Commandant of AFCSC, Air Vice Marshal Shogbanmu served as the Chief of Logistics at the Headquarters, Nigerian Air Force. Where he played a vital role in logistics planning and operational support across the Service.

In his valedictory speech, the outgone Commandant, Air Vice Marshal Hassan Idris Alhaji, thanked the Almighty God and the College community for a successful tenure. He described the occasion as the conclusion of a collective journey that started on 3 July 2023. He expressed satisfaction with the progress recorded by the College during his tenure. He wished the new Commandant a successful tour of duty and appreciated officers and staff for their cooperation and support throughout his command while requesting the same to be extended to his successor.

Highlights of the event were tour of the College facilities, inspection of newly completed and ongoing projects, signing of Handing and Taking Over Notes and presentation of the College Flag, symbolising the formal transfer of command. The ceremony also featured Quarter Guard drills and group photograph.

In attendance were the Commandant, Nigerian Defence Academy, Major General OT Olatoye, the Deputy Commandant/Director of Studies Rear Admiral AV Kujoh, College Directors, Commanding Officer 4 Demonstration Battalion, Lt Col BN Lander and other senior officers.