The House of Representatives has confirmed Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede as the substantive Chief of Army Staff.
This confirmation came after his screening by the Joint Committees on Defence and Army on Wednesday.
The Chairman of the Committee on Defence, Babajimi Benson presented the report and urged the House to confirm Oluyede. The Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu, presided over the session and put the question before the lawmakers, who responded in the affirmative.
During the screening, Oluyede demonstrated his competence and experience, addressing issues related to inter-agency synergy and civilian-military relationships. The committee observed that he gave a good account of himself and was fit and proper for the position.
Oluyede’s confirmation was unanimous, with the lawmakers expressing satisfaction with his academic and professional qualifications, exposure, character, conduct, experience, and general performance.
The committee also noted that he displayed wide and in-depth knowledge of strategies and tactics during his acting capacity.
Oluyede was first appointed as the acting Chief of Army Staff following the ill-health and subsequent death of ex-Army chief, General Taoreed Lagbaja, earlier in November 2024.
With his confirmation, Oluyede becomes the 24th Chief of Army Staff.
The new Chief of Army Staff has pledged to bring his vast experience in war and negotiation skills to bear in the performance of his duties. He has also expressed his commitment to addressing the challenges facing the military, including insurgency, banditry, and internal security.
Oluyede’s confirmation marks a significant development in the country’s military leadership, and it is expected that he will play a crucial role in addressing the security challenges facing the nation.
