The House of Representatives confirmed Oluyede as the new Chief of Army Staff (COAS)
The House of Representative has confirmed the appointment of Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede as the Chief of Army Staff (COAS).
The confirmation followed the consideration of the report from the ad–hoc committee on confirmation/screening for acting Chief of Army Staff on Thursday.
The chairman of the ad-hoc Committee Rep. Babajimi Benson (APC Lagos) while reading the synopsis of the report said that the committee has reviewed his CV and have questioned him. He therefore urged that the House to approve the recommendation of the committee.
The committee recommended that “the nominee displayed wide and in-depth knowledge on strategies, tactics, and military operations, as he submitted during his active capacity,”.
Oluyede appeared before the ad-hoc on Wednesday, November 27, 2024. He pledged to bring lasting peace to the country if confirmed as substantive chief of army staff.
He emphasized that the current security challenges in the country demand a collective effort from all Nigerians.
He also advocated for robust bilateral and multilateral partnerships with neighboring nations, along with enhanced collaboration and coordinated actions among the armed forces and other security agencies.
“I am honoured this evening to be considered worthy to play a part in these efforts and I look forward to contributing my utmost best by working with the National Assembly and other stakeholders in bringing lasting peace to the length and breadth of our dear country Nigeria.
“I humbly appear before you today to be confirmed as the 24th Chief of Army Staff of the Nigerian Army simply because tragedy befell our Army and Armed Force, and as a nation in total when the 23rd Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja passed after a brief illness.
“I have served this great nation as an officer of the Nigerian Army for over 30 years. My exposure to national security issues at the junior, middle, and senior cadres of the military profession has prepared me adequately for the assignment I am being screened for here today.
“I see my nomination as the Chief of Army Staff as a privileged opportunity to be in the driver’s seat and bring about more positive changes to the Nigerian Army to enable it to fulfil its constitutional responsibilities.
“Thus, if confirmed by this joint committee and given the common mandate to lead the Nigerian Army during this period, I promise to do my best to justify the confidence imposed in me by the appointing authority,” he said.
Oluyede said that the security environment required a united effort on the part of every Nigerian
He said that there is need for strong bilateral and multilateral alliances between Nigeria and her neighbours, as well as deep collaboration among services and other security agencies.
STAR Check: Nigerians, particularly, constituents of Ikorodu Federal Constituency in Lagos State, can keep tabs on the legislative performance of Rep. Benson throughout the 10th House here
