Senate Confirms Oluyede Chief Of Army Staff

Senate Confirms Oluyede Chief Of Army Staff

Lt. General Olufemi Oluyede has become Nigeria’s substantive Chief of Army Staff, following the Senate’s confirmation of President Bola Tinubu’s appointment of the new Army chief.

The development, announced on Tuesday, followed the review of a report submitted by the Senate Committee on Army, led by Senator Abdulaziz Yar’Adua (APC, Katsina Central), during plenary.

Yar’Adua while presenting the report noted that the committee screened Oluyede on November 26 in his capacity as Acting Chief of Army Staff.

Yar’Adua said Oluyede was deemed highly qualified and met all the necessary criteria for the position.

All senators present endorsed the appointment unanimously during the Committee of the Whole’s deliberations.

In his remarks, Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, expressed confidence in Oluyede’s ability to address the nation’s rising security challenges, particularly the activities of terrorists and bandits.

He also extended his condolences over the passing of the former COAS, Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja, praying for the continued repose of his soul.

Tinubu had requested the Senate’s confirmation of Oluyede’s appointment last week, citing constitutional provisions under Section 218 (2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Section 18 (1) of the Armed Forces Act.

In his letter to the Senate President, Tinubu described Oluyede as a seasoned officer known for his exceptional leadership, professionalism, and steadfast commitment to national security and unity.

Oluyede was appointed as Acting Chief of Army Staff on October 30, following the illness and subsequent demise of his predecessor, Lagbaja