The House of Representatives on Thursday, confirmed Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede as the substantive Chief of Army Staff of the Nigerian Army.
This confirmation followed Oluyede’s screening by the House Joint Committee on Defence and Army on Wednesday.
The committee’s report was presented during Thursday’s plenary by its Chairman, Babajimi Benson, who urged the House to approve Oluyede’s appointment.
While presenting the report, Benson, representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency, stated: “We reviewed his CV and questioned him on various issues, including inter-agency synergy and civilian-military relationships. Our observation is that General Olufemi Oluyede is fit and proper for the position, having given an excellent account of himself during the screening”.
Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, who presided over the session, highlighted the committee’s findings before calling for a vote:
“The committee carefully and thoroughly engaged with the nominee and was satisfied with his academic and professional qualifications, conduct, experience, and performance. General Oluyede demonstrated extensive knowledge of military strategies and tactics during his acting capacity”.
The House unanimously approved Oluyede’s confirmation following a voice vote.
The report also detailed Oluyede’s vast military experience, noting his exposure to critical war zones and his expertise in negotiation and strategic security.
During the screening, Oluyede pledged to apply his experience to address Nigeria’s security challenges, particularly in combating terrorism, insurgency, and banditry.
Other areas assessed during the screening included his plans for military funding, the welfare of soldiers, equipment upgrades, recruitment, training, accountability, and media relations.
Oluyede’s journey to this position began earlier in November when he was appointed acting Chief of Army Staff after the passing of Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja.
With his confirmation, he becomes the 24th Chief of Army Staff of the Nigerian Army.
