The Defence Space Administration (DSA) on Thursday, November 6, 2025, held a formal Handing and Taking Over Ceremony to officially mark the transition of leadership from the outgoing Chief of Defence Space Administration (CDSA), Air Vice Marshal Lanre Ibrahim Oluwatoyin to the incoming Chief of Defence space Administration, Major General Philip Ilodibia, who becomes the 8th CDSA.
The ceremony, which took place at the DSA Headquarters in Abuja, was attended by senior military officers, the Director General of the National Space Research and Development Agency, representatives of partner organizations, DSA staff, and other distinguished guests. The event reflected the Administration’s tradition of discipline, professionalism, and continuity in leadership.
In his welcome address, the Director of Administration, Brigadier General OSA Fashina, lauded the outgoing CDSA for his visionary and result-driven leadership, which he said significantly enhanced capacity development, innovation, and productivity across the Administration. He also welcomed Maj Gen Ilodibia, describing him as a leader with a strong reputation for excellence and expressing confidence that his tenure would usher in further progress for the DSA.
Delivering his valedictory remarks, AVM Oluwatoyin expressed deep gratitude to the Chief of Defence Staff, the Service Chiefs, and DSA personnel for their support during his tenure. He described his time in office as both fulfilling and humbling, noting the Administration’s strides in strengthening partnerships, advancing space science and technology, and promoting staff development through continuous training aligned with global standards. He also expressed appreciation to his wife, colleagues, and subordinates for their loyalty and cooperation, urging them to extend the same support to his successor.
In his inaugural address, Maj Gen Ilodibia thanked Almighty God, the Chief of Defence Staff, and the Service Chiefs for the confidence reposed in him. He commended AVM Oluwatoyin for his exemplary leadership and the smooth transition process, pledging to build upon his predecessor’s achievements. Maj Gen Ilodibia outlined his vision to reinforce the DSA’s position as the ultimate high ground in defence and security, emphasizing operational efficiency, research, innovation, and technological excellence as key drivers of his administration.
Highlights of the ceremony included the signing of the handing and taking over notes, the presentation of insignia, official photographs, and the ceremonial lowering and hoisting of the flag, symbolizing the formal transfer of authority.
The event marked a seamless and dignified change of leadership, reaffirming the Defence Space Administration’s enduring commitment to professionalism, innovation, and national service.
