Editor
The Nigerian Senate has confirmed the appointment of Lt. General Olufemi Oluyede as the substantive Chief of Army Staff (COAS).
The confirmation, made on Tuesday, followed President Bola Tinubu’s recommendation and the Senate Committee on Army’s report.
Senator Abdulaziz Yar’Adua (APC, Katsina Central), Chairman of the Committee on Army, presented the report during plenary.
He highlighted that General Oluyede had been thoroughly screened on November 26 while serving as Acting COAS and was deemed qualified to assume the substantive role based on his credentials and performance.
During the session, all senators in attendance unanimously approved the appointment, signaling widespread support.
In his remarks, Senate President Godswill Akpabio expressed confidence in General Oluyede’s ability to address the nation’s security challenges, particularly the growing threats posed by terrorists and bandits. Akpabio congratulated the new COAS and extended prayers for the late Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja, Oluyede’s predecessor, whose passing had led to the vacancy.
President Tinubu initially appointed Lt. General Oluyede as Acting COAS on October 30, following Lt. General Lagbaja’s illness. Last week, Tinubu formally requested the Senate’s confirmation in a letter addressed to the Senate President. Citing constitutional provisions under Section 218(2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Section 18(1) of the Armed Forces Act, Tinubu emphasized Oluyede’s extensive experience, professionalism, and commitment to Nigeria’s security and unity as reasons for his recommendation.
The confirmation marks a pivotal step in Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen its military leadership amid ongoing security concerns.
